U.S. patent application number 17/571743 was filed with the patent office on 2022-06-30 for internally heated modular fluid delivery system.
The applicant listed for this patent is Wagner Spray Tech Corporation. Invention is credited to Thomas P. DAIGLE, Jeffrey S. JERDEE, Shawn C. JOHNSON.
Application Number | 20220205574 17/571743 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006196442 |
Filed Date | 2022-06-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220205574 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
JERDEE; Jeffrey S. ; et
al. |
June 30, 2022 |
INTERNALLY HEATED MODULAR FLUID DELIVERY SYSTEM
Abstract
A modular fluid delivery assembly is provided. The modular fluid
delivery assembly comprises a fluid conduit. The modular fluid
delivery assembly also comprises an electrical heating element
disposed within the fluid conduit. The electrical heating element
is configured to provide a heat source within the fluid conduit.
The modular fluid delivery assembly also comprises a connection
assembly, located proximate an end of the modular fluid delivery
assembly, coupled to the heating element and the fluid conduit. The
connection assembly is configured to provide a hydraulic coupling
to the fluid conduit, and to provide an electronic coupling to the
electrical heating element.
Inventors: |
JERDEE; Jeffrey S.;
(Brooklyn Park, MN) ; DAIGLE; Thomas P.; (Hanover,
MN) ; JOHNSON; Shawn C.; (Milaca, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Wagner Spray Tech Corporation |
Plymouth |
MN |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000006196442 |
Appl. No.: |
17/571743 |
Filed: |
January 10, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15333341 |
Oct 25, 2016 |
11255476 |
|
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17571743 |
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62248090 |
Oct 29, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B05B 9/002 20130101;
F16L 25/01 20130101; F16L 53/38 20180101; B05B 7/1693 20130101;
F16L 53/30 20180101; B05C 9/14 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F16L 53/30 20060101
F16L053/30; F16L 25/01 20060101 F16L025/01; F16L 53/38 20060101
F16L053/38; B05B 7/16 20060101 B05B007/16; B05B 9/00 20060101
B05B009/00; B05C 9/14 20060101 B05C009/14 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A hose assembly comprising: a flexible fluid conduit forming a
fluid channel; a first connection assembly disposed at a first end
of the flexible fluid conduit and configured to receive fluid; an
electrical heating assembly comprising to heating element and an
electrical return line electrically coupled to the heating element,
wherein the heating element is disposed within the fluid channel
and configured to provide a heat source that heats the fluid within
the fluid channel; and a second connection assembly disposed at a
second end of the fluid conduit and including a heating assembly
passageway that intersects the fluid channel, wherein a portion of
the electrical heating assembly is disposed in the heating element
passageway and the electrical return line is disposed outside of
the fluid channel.
22. The hose assembly of claim 21, wherein the portion of the
electrical heating assembly comprises an electrical lead for the
return wire to exit the fluid channel.
23. The hose assembly of claim 21, wherein the first connection
assembly comprises a first heating assembly passageway that
intersects the fluid channel, and the heating assembly passageway
of the second connection assembly comprises a second, heating
assembly passageway, and wherein a portion of the electrical
heating assembly is disposed in the first heating element.
passageway.
24. The hose assembly of claim 23, wherein the portion of the
electrical heating assembly disposed in the first heating element
passageway comprises an electrical lead for the heating element to
enter the fluid channel.
25. The hose assembly of claim 21, wherein the first connection
assembly is configured to couple to another hose assembly such that
the hose assembly and the other hose assembly are hydraulically
coupled in series.
26. The hose assembly of claim 21, wherein the first connection
assembly is configured to couple to a fluid pump.
27. The hose assembly of claim 21, wherein the second connection
assembly is coupled to a second hose assembly that is hydraulically
coupled in series to the first hose assembly.
28. The hose assembly of claim 27, wherein the electrical heating
element comprises a first electrical heating; element, and the
second hose assembly comprises a second electrical heating
element.
29. The hose assembly of claim 21, wherein the heating element
passageway includes a seal that inhibits fluid flow through the
heating element passageway.
30. The hose assembly of claim 21, wherein the flow of fluid is
provided to a dispenser.
31. The hose assembly of claim 30, wherein the dispenser comprises
a spray gun.
32. A system comprising: a first hose assembly comprising: a first
fluid conduit forming a first fluid channel; a first electrical
heating assembly comprising a first heating element and a first
electrical return line electrically coupled to the first heating
clement, wherein the first heating element is disposed within the
first fluid channel and configured to provide a heat source that
heats fluid within the first fluid channel, and a first connection
assembly disposed at an end of the first fluid conduit and
including a heating assembly passageway that intersects the first
fluid channel, wherein a portion of the first electrical heating
assembly is disposed in the first heating element passageway and
the first electrical return line disposed outside of the first
fluid channel; and a second hose assembly comprising: a second
fluid conduit forming a second fluid channel; a second electrical
heating assembly comprising a second heat n element and a second
electrical return line electrically coupled to the second heating
element and disposed outside of the second fluid channel, wherein
the second heating element is disposed within the second fluid
channel and configured to provide a heat source that heats fluid,
within the second fluid channel; and a second connection assembly
disposed at an end of the second fluid conduit and configured to
couple to the first hose connection assembly.
34. The system of claim 32, wherein the portion of the electrical
heating assembly comprises an electrical lead for the return wire
to exit the fluid channel.
34. The system of claim 32, wherein the portion of the electrical
heating assembly disposed in the heating element passageway
comprises an electrical lead for the heating element to enter the
fluid channel.
35. The system of claim 32, wherein the heating element passageway
includes a seal that inhibits fluid flow through the heating
element passageway.
36. The system of claim 21, and further comprising a controller
configured to control temperatures of the first heating element and
the second heating element.
37. The system of claim 32, and further comprising a dispenser
configured to receive and dispense the flow of fluid.
38. The system of claim 36, wherein the dispenser comprises a spray
gun.
39. A fluid hose connection assembly comprising: a component inlet
configured to receive fluid from a conduit having a fluid channel
and an electrical heating assembly including an internal beating
element disposed in the fluid channel; a component outlet; a fluid
chamber between the component inlet and the component outlet, and
configured to receive the fluid from the fluid channel; and a
heating assembly passageway that intersects the fluid chamber,
wherein a portion of he electrical heating assembly is disposed in
the heating, element passageway.
40. The fluid hose connection assembly of claim 39, wherein the
portion of the electrical heating assembly comprises an electrical
lead for the return wire to exit the fluid channel,
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of and claims
priority of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/333,341, filed Oct.
25, 2016, and which is based on and claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/248,090 filed Oct. 29,
2015, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in
their entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Fluid delivery hoses are used in a wide variety of
applications to deliver fluid from a reservoir, tank or other
receptacle to an apparatus or other suitable device for application
to a surface. Examples of such fluid delivery devices include,
without limitation, paint spraying systems, pressure washers, and
plural component delivery systems. Often, the fluid is a liquid
that must be delivered at a high pressure and/or high temperature
in order to ensure sufficient atomization and consistent delivery
for an application to a surface or space.
[0003] Many fluids are deliverable by a fluid delivery system with
characteristics that are temperature dependent. Examples of
temperature dependent characteristics of fluid that can affect
their performance in a given process include viscosity and in the
context of plural component delivery systems, the potential
reactivity of a component. Accordingly, a number of fluid delivery
systems employ thermal control systems in order to ensure proper
thermal control of the fluid. In fact, in order to precisely
control the temperature of a fluid all the way to an applicator,
which may be a distance away from a pump, it is also know that
fluid hoses themselves may be supplied with a source of heat. These
heaters are typically electric heaters energized to initially heat
the temperature of the fluid flowing through the hose.
SUMMARY
[0004] A modular fluid delivery assembly is provided. The modular
fluid delivery assembly comprises a fluid conduit. The modular
fluid delivery assembly also comprises an electrical heating
element disposed within the fluid conduit. The electrical heating
element is configured to provide a heat source within the fluid
conduit. The modular fluid delivery assembly also comprises a
connection assembly, located proximate an end of the modular fluid
delivery assembly, coupled to the heating element and the fluid
conduit. The connection assembly is configured to provide a
hydraulic coupling to the fluid conduit, and to provide an
electronic coupling to the electrical heating element.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0005] FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a fluid delivery system in
which embodiments of the present invention are particularly
useful.
[0006] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view of a fluid delivery system in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0007] FIG. 3 is a view of a modular fluid delivery system in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0008] FIGS. 4A and 4B are close-up views of an example of a
modular connection assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0009] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of an example of a
plural component modular fluid delivery system in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a method of using a fluid
application system in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0011] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a method of assembling a modular
fluid delivery system in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0012] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrates close-up views of inlet and
outlet coupling portions for a plural component modular fluid
assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0013] FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate close-up views of inlet, outlet, and
internal coupling portions of a plural component modular fluid
delivery system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0014] FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate views of modular fluid transport
assembly components for a single fluid line in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0015] Fluid delivery systems may require a fluid to be heated for
delivery at an application source. Because many parameters of a
fluid can be temperature dependent, it may be necessary for a fluid
at an applicator source to have a consistent temperature during an
application. For that reason, delivery fluid systems may comprise
electrically heated fluid delivery hoses. There are currently two
different kinds of electrically heated fluid delivery hoses.
[0016] Externally heated fluid delivery hoses generally have an
electrical element that is positioned about an external surface of
the fluid delivery hose and is configured to drive heat through a
hose wall into the fluid. Given that the electrical element is
disposed outside of the hose, it is also typically necessary for
such externally heated hoses to have significant amounts of thermal
insulation in order to help drive the majority of the heat into the
fluid. However, there can still be significant thermal losses to an
environment in such scenarios. Additionally, because of the thermal
losses and the temperature limit of an electrical element, it may
not be possible to use an electrical element external to the fluid
to increase a temperature of a fluid within the hose, but only
maintain a fluid temperature once initially heated.
[0017] Internally heated fluid delivery hoses are also known.
Typically, internally heated fluid delivery hoses comprise an
electrical heating element positioned within the fluid conduit
itself. The internally positioned element is insulated from the
fluid, for example by a non-conductive sleeve or coating, and when
energized, directs substantially all of its heat into the fluid.
While such internally positioned electrical elements are more
efficient at transferring their heat to the fluid than external
heaters, they provide additional challenges with respect to
generating an effective seal for the heating element as it passes
into the fluid conduit, which is some instances may sustain a fluid
pressure of over 3,000 pounds per square inch (PSI).
[0018] Currently, internally heated fluid delivery hoses cannot be
interconnected with additional externally, or internally, heated
fluid delivery hoses. Therefore, if a user needs a longer
internally heated hose than they currently have, a new hose with
the desired length is currently required. Additionally, in the
event that part of an internally-heated hose is damaged, the entire
hose must be replaced, because of the difficulty in replacing or
repairing the damaged portion. Damage is most common at the
applicator end, which tends to be used more roughly. Another issue
exists for plural component systems, where, if crossfire occurs
between two component streams (component A backfiring into
component B delivery hose, for example), permanent damage can be
sustained to a component streams, requiring the entire hose to be
replaced.
[0019] Another problem present with internally heated hoses is they
need to run a return wire from the applicator end back to a
controller, often located at a pump end of the hose, to have a
closed control loop. The 180.degree. turn required at the
applicator end of a hose can cause a kink, creating another
potential source of failure. Additionally, running a wire within a
hose, from the controller to the applicator and back, presents
additional sources of failure that are difficult to repair.
Accordingly, there is a need to provide a heated fluid delivery
hose that provides the thermal efficiency of internal electrical
heating, with the ability to interconnect multiple such hoses.
[0020] Embodiments described herein generally provide an internally
heated modular fluid delivery hose module that is
inter-connectable, both hydraulically and electrically, on either
end, allowing for connections to additional hose modules while
maintaining an effective seal to the heating element under
relatively significant fluid pressures (rated up to 3,000 PSI, for
example). Embodiments herein will generally be described with
respect to a single heated wire or electrical element. However,
additional heated wires or elements could be provided in other
embodiments, for example in order to provide a higher wattage.
Additionally, in some embodiments, a single heating element may
comprise a plurality of wires, for example braided wires. Moreover,
while embodiments herein are particularly applicable to fluid
component delivery systems, it is expressly contemplated that at
least some embodiments can be practiced with any fluid delivery
system for which thermal control of the delivery fluid is desired.
Further still, it is also contemplated that embodiments of the
present invention can be used to retrofit a non-heated fluid
delivery system with a heated fluid delivery system.
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a fluid delivery system in
which embodiments of the present invention are particularly useful.
FIG. 1 illustrates a plural component fluid delivery system 100
configured to deliver two or more components that are combined, for
instance using a dispensing component such as, but not limited to,
a spray gun, an extruding gun, a plural component applicator, or
other suitable mechanism. In one example, a spray gun
(schematically represented in FIG. 1 by block 101) combines (for
example, externally or internally in an internal mixing chamber)
the two liquid components, which are then sprayed onto a surface,
or into a space.
[0022] In one embodiment, system 100 includes a first pump unit
102, and a second pump unit 104, with each of pumps 102 and 104
configured to pump a respective component. Pump unit 102, in one
embodiment, includes a first piston pump assembly 106, and pump
unit 104 includes a second piston pump assembly 108. Piston pump
assembly 106 receives a component from a first container 110, via
tube or hose 112 in one embodiment. Piston pump assembly 108, in
one embodiment, receives a second component, from a second
container 114, via a tube or hose 116. Examples of containers 110
and 114 include, but are not limited to, 55 gallon barrels or other
appropriate containers. The pressurized components, in one
embodiment, are delivered to spray gun 101 or another suitable
output device via hoses 118 and 120. It is noted that while two
pump units are illustrated, in one embodiment, three or more pumps
can be utilized to deliver a respected component at a desired
ratio.
[0023] System 100 includes one or more controllers. In the
illustrated embodiment, system 100 includes a heater controller 122
controller 122 configured to control operation of a heater
assembly. Further, each pump unit 102 and 104 includes a controller
103 and 105 configured to control the respective pump units to
deliver the components at a desired ratio and/or pressure. For
example, the components can be sprayed at pressures up to, or
exceeding, 3,200 PSI, and in ratios of 1:1, 1.25:1, 1.5:1, 1.75:1,
2:1, 5:1, or any other desired ratio. However, while embodiments
herein are described with respect to high pressure applications, it
is to be understood that systems described herein could also be
used for lower pressure spraying applications. While multiple
controllers are described herein, in one embodiment, a single
controller can be provided for controlling operation of the pump
units and heater assembly.
[0024] The pressurized fluid from each piston pump assembly 106 and
108, in one embodiment, is provided through a tube to a prime/spray
valve. As illustrated in FIG. 1, a tube 109 provides a path from
second piston pump assembly 108 to prime spray valve 111 having an
actuation mechanism 113, such as a knob, to select between priming
and spraying functions. In the spraying position, the fluid is
directed through a tube 115 into housing 124. In a priming
position, the fluid is directed from a port 117 through a return
hose (not shown in FIG. 1) to container 114. Similar tubes and
components are provided for assembly 106.
[0025] Housing 124 comprises an enclosure housing a heater assembly
that receives the first and second liquid components via tubes 115
and 119 respectively. Tube 119 provides a path from prime/spray
valve 107 associated with first piston pump assembly 106.
[0026] Heated liquid components exit housing 124, in one
embodiment, into a secondary housing 121, which provides a sealed
gateway for the electrical heating wires of heating elements.
Housing 121 also provides an attachment of pressure gauges and
recirculating valve assemblies 129 and 131 for each component,
which are operable, in one embodiment, to selectively direct the
liquid components to return paths to their respective containers.
Illustratively, assembly 131 is operable to supply the first
component to either hose 120, or through a recirculating hose
attached to port 123. Assembly 129 is operable to supply the second
component to either hose 118, or through a recirculating hose
attached to port 125. In this manner, the recirculating valve
assemblies 129 and 131 allow the components to be circulated
through the heater assembly for preheating prior to spraying.
[0027] FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic view of a fluid delivery system in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. System 200,
in one embodiment is configured to receive fluid from a fluid
source 210 and apply it to a surface using applicator 260. For
example, fluid within fluid source 210 may comprise paint, a plural
component, or another suitable fluid. In one embodiment, fluid
source 210 is received and pressurized by pump 220. While
applicator 260, in one embodiment, is configured to spray fluid at
a designated pressure, pump 220 may provide the fluid at a pump
outlet at a higher pressure than that of applicator 260, in order
to account for pressure losses as the fluid is transferred.
[0028] In one embodiment, system 200 comprises a heater 240. Heater
240 may be configured to provide an initial source of heat for
fluid source 210, for example to bring the fluid to an initial
temperature. In one embodiment, heater 240 is configured to provide
sufficient heat to bring fluid source 210 substantially to a
desired applicator temperature. However, in other embodiments,
heater 240 may heat fluid source 210 to a higher than applicator
temperature, or a lower than applicator temperature depending on
the application at hand. While heater 240 provides an initial
source of heat, the temperature of the fluid may decrease as the
fluid is transported to an application point due to imperfect
insulation and ambient conditions.
[0029] System 200 also comprises a transport mechanism 250. In one
embodiment, transport mechanism 250 comprises a conduit running
from pump 220 to applicator 260. In one embodiment, transport
mechanism 250 comprises both a hydraulic component 254 and an
electrical component 252. Hydraulic component 254 comprises a fluid
conduit configured to transport a heated fluid from pump 220 to
applicator 260. In one embodiment, electrical component 252
comprises a heating element configured to heat fluid within conduit
254. In one embodiment, heating element 252 is an internal heating
element located within hydraulic component 254. In one embodiment,
heating element 252 is configured to heat fluid within hydraulic
component 254 to a desired application temperature.
[0030] In one embodiment, system 200 comprises a controller 230
configured to provide control signals to pump 220, heater 240,
and/or transport mechanism 250. While only one controller 230 is
shown in FIG. 2, illustratively each of the pump 220, heater 240,
and transport 250 may receive signals from different individual
controllers 230, in one embodiment. Controller 230 may comprise a
user interface where a user may set an applicator pressure.
Controller 230 may then relay the applicator pressure to pump 220
which may provide fluid at a pressure such that, once the fluid has
passed through transport mechanism 250, to applicator 260, it
arrives at the desired application pressure. Controller 230 may
also send a control signal to heater 240, for example, based on a
user selected temperature, to heat fluid to a temperature, and
sends another control signal to transport mechanism 250 such that
enough heat is provided to maintain, increase, or decrease the
fluid temperature to a desired applicator temperature. In one
embodiment, controller 230 is configured to provide a control
signal to heater 240 such that heater 240 will heat the fluid to a
temperature less than applicator temperature, and transport
mechanism 250 provides additional heat to raise the heat of the
fluid to the desired applicator temperature.
[0031] System 200 illustratively includes a single transport
mechanism 250. However, in other embodiments, multiple transport
systems 250 are used, either in series (in order to cover a greater
distance between fluid source 210 and applicator 260, for example)
or in parallel (for example, to provide plural components from
multiple fluid sources 210 to applicator 260), or both.
[0032] FIG. 3 is a view of a modular fluid delivery system in
accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. System 300
illustratively includes two fluid transport modules 310 and 320,
hydraulically and electrically coupled at coupling point 330. The
series of fluid transport modules 310 and 320 may, for example,
serve as a transport mechanism 250, described with respect to FIG.
2. In one embodiment, each of fluid transport modules 310 and 320
comprise a hydraulic component and an electrical component--for
example a heating element within a fluid conduit. In one
embodiment, fluid transport modules 310 and 320 are connected in
series such that fluid is received at an inlet 302, for example
from either a pump or a heating system, and exits through an outlet
304, coupled to an applicator, for example.
[0033] Previously, it has been difficult to provide fluid in an
internally-heated conduit over different distances with a single
system. For example, a consumer may buy a 100 foot internally
heated hose assembly. If the user needs to cover a 200-foot
distance from fluid source to applicator, a whole new 200-foot hose
assembly may be required, as most internal heating systems are not
configured such that they can be connected in series. Modular hose
assembly 300 provides one example solution.
[0034] Each of fluid transport modules 310 and 320 are configured
to be coupled in series, allowing a user to extend an operational
length of a fluid transport system. FIG. 3 shows a relatively short
modular hose assembly 300, for the purposes of illustration. Each
of fluid transport modules 310 and 320 can, illustratively, be any
length. For example, in one embodiment, fluid transport modules 310
and 320 are substantially the same length. In another embodiment,
fluid transport modules 310 and 320 are different lengths. In one
embodiment, each fluid transport module is substantially 100 feet
in length, when empty. In another embodiment, fluid transport
modules can be configured to be 10 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, 50 feet,
100 feet, 200 feet, or any other suitable length.
[0035] In an embodiment where fluid transport module 310 is coupled
to a fluid source, first fluid transport module 310 receives fluid
at an inlet coupling component 306. Inlet coupling component 306 is
configured to couple, for example, to a fluid pump system in order
to receive a pressurized fluid. However, in another embodiment,
coupling component 306 is configured to couple to another fluid
transport module such that modular hose assembly 300 is extendible
to any desired length. Inlet coupling component 306, in one
embodiment, comprises a material rated for high pressure
applications, such that it can safely house fluid pressurized by a
pump. For example, in one embodiment, inlet coupling component 306
comprises a metal housing, for example steel, stainless steel,
aluminum, or any other suitable material. Inlet coupling component
306 is configured to couple, in one embodiment to an incoming
electronics line 361, a ground wire 356, and a fluid inlet 302.
[0036] Fluid inlet 302, in one embodiment, couples to fluid channel
352. In one embodiment, fluid channel 352 also comprises
electronics running from inlet coupling component 306 to a first
fluid transport module coupling component 312. However, it is
important that when the electronics are coupled between, for
example fluid transport modules 310 and 320, that the electronics
are not coupled in such a way that they are exposed to the fluid.
Therefore, in one embodiment, shown for example in more detail in
FIGS. 4A and 4B, electronics are configured to be separated from a
fluid conduit, such that each travels through a separate chamber
within coupling component 312. This ensures that the electronics
couple from a first fluid transport module 310, to a second fluid
transport module 320, in a dry environment.
[0037] Fluid and electronics within line 352 travel from fluid
transport module 310, and are received by fluid transport module
320 through a second fluid transport module coupling component 314.
In one embodiment, second fluid transport module coupling component
314 is configured to separately the electronics component from
fluid transport module 310, and couple it an electronics component
associated with second fluid transport module 320. Similarly,
second fluid transport module coupling component 314 is configured
to receive a separated electronics element from first fluid
transport module coupling component, and join the received
electronics component to conduit 362, such that the fluid conduit
362 is internally heated by the electronic heating system.
[0038] In one embodiment, electronics 361, 363 and 364 comprise a
loop that runs substantially from a controller, located at the pump
location, to an applicator, located at an outlet. In order to
complete a control loop, it is necessary for a return line to
return back from the applicator to the pump. Electronics 363 forms
the return line, in one embodiment, and comprises a neutral wire
that completes the control loop, and runs from the applicator back
to the controller. In one embodiment, the return line is separated
from electronics line 361, such that it can be electronically
coupled between fluid transport components 310 and 320. In one
embodiment, electronics 364 forms a return line for second fluid
transport module 320 and is configured to electronically couple to
the return line of electronics 363 as fluid transport module
coupling component 312 couples to second fluid transport module
coupling component 314.
[0039] In one embodiment, second fluid transport module 320 also
comprises an outlet coupling component 308, configured to
separately couple a hydraulic and electrical component to, for
example, a fluid applicator (not shown). In one embodiment, each of
coupling components 306, 312, 314, and 308 function substantially
similarly, such that each is configured to separately couple an
electronic component (such as heating element and/or return line),
and a hydraulic component, between fluid transport modules, such as
modules 310 and 320.
[0040] In one embodiment, each of components 306, 308, 312 and 314
have a directionality, such that one end is configured to receive a
fluid transport module with an internally-located electrical
component, and the other end is configured to provide the separated
hydraulic component and electrical component for coupling to
another fluid transport module. In one embodiment, a user (for
example, a purchaser of multiple fluid transport modules 310 and/or
320), can, therefore, join each fluid transport module in an
end-to-end configuration in order to obtain a longer fluid delivery
system than that shown in FIG. 3. When connected, the modular fluid
assembly is configured to provide both electrical and hydraulic
coupling from a controller to an applicator, such that controller
can provide a signal to bring fluid to a desired internal
temperature through transport system 300.
[0041] FIGS. 4A and 4B are close-up views of an example modular
connection assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. FIG. 4A illustrates a cross-sectional view of a coupling
400 between a first fluid transport module coupling portion 410 and
a second fluid transport module coupling portion 420 within a fluid
delivery system. In one embodiment, each of fluid transport module
coupling portions 410 and 420 may be configured to couple to a
pressurization system for a fluid, a heating system, a fluid
applicator, to other modular sections (e.g. to each other, as shown
in FIG. 4A), or any combination thereof.
[0042] In one embodiment, fluid is configured to flow through
connection 400 from an inlet 402, to an outlet 404. As illustrated
in FIG. 4, an internal heating element 412, in one embodiment, is
located within a fluid channel 414 as it approaches connection 400.
As fluid flows through fluid transport module coupling portion 410,
heating element 412 is separated from fluid channel 414, such that
it can be separately coupled to another fluid transport module in a
fluid-free environment. In one embodiment, heating element 412,
once separated from fluid channel 414, passes through a seal 416
that is configured to keep fluid from entering an electrical
chamber 434. In one embodiment, seal 416 is a pressure-based seal
configured to apply a high pressure in order to keep fluid outside
of electrical chamber 434. In one embodiment, electrical chamber
434 is configured to provide heating element 412 for coupling to
heating element 422 in an environment free of fluid transported by
the fluid transport system. For example, in one embodiment,
electrical chamber 434 comprises a dry chamber.
[0043] Fluid from conduit 414 continues to travel into a fluid
chamber 432, which, in one embodiment, is physically separate from
electrical chamber 434. In one embodiment, when fluid transport
module coupling portion 410 is coupled to fluid transport module
coupling portion 420, heating element 412 is coupled to heating
element 422, and fluid channel 414 is coupled to fluid channel 424.
The coupling 400 takes place, in one embodiment, along a coupling
plane 440 where module 410 couples to module 420.
[0044] In one embodiment, fluid transport module coupling portions
410 and 420 have a directionality defined by an inlet and an
outlet, such that fluid is configured to travel only one way
through the module. In an embodiment where modules have
directionality, each has a different coupling mechanism configured
to assist a user in correctly coupling fluid transport modules. For
example, in one embodiment, fluid transport module coupling portion
410 comprises a coupling portion 418 configured to be received by a
coupling portion 428, of fluid transport module coupling portion
420. However, in other embodiments, other coupling configurations
can also be used so long that a sufficient seal is provided to keep
fluid from electrical chamber 434. For example, in one embodiment,
seal 438 is provided as a secondary leak-prevention mechanism.
[0045] In one embodiment, each of fluid transport module coupling
portions 410 and 420 comprise a cover 436 attached by one or more
cover fasteners 430. In one embodiment, cover 436 is attached to a
fluid transport module coupling portion by one or more screws, for
example, as shown in FIG. 4A. However, in other embodiments, other
fastening mechanisms could be used, or modular connection
mechanisms could have no removable cover and be substantially
inaccessible by a user, or have an inaccessible housing. However,
it may be beneficial for a user to access electrical chamber 434,
for example in the event that wiring needs to be checked, replaced,
or other minor damage needs to be repaired. In one embodiment, as
heating element 422 leaves electrical chamber 435, it passes
through seal 426, which is configured to provide a seal between
electrical chamber 435 and fluid chamber 433, such that it
maintains a seal between fluid chamber 433 and electrical chamber
435. Heating element 422 is then introduced into fluid conduit 424
to provide a source of internal heating along the rest of a fluid
transport module associated with fluid transport module coupling
portion 420.
[0046] FIG. 4B illustrates a substantially top down view of
coupling 400 between fluid transport module coupling portions 410
and 420. In one embodiment, for example that as shown in FIG. 4B,
covers 436 are removed for illustration purposes only.
[0047] In one embodiment, return line portion 464 is received, from
fluid transport module coupling portion 420, by fluid transport
module coupling portion 410, and electronically coupled to return
line portion 454, as shown in FIG. 4B. In one embodiment, fluid
transport module coupling portion 410 also comprises a ground wire
456. Fluid transport module coupling portion 410, in one
embodiment, also receives a heating element 452, for example
separated from a fluid line, which is then electronically coupled
to heating element 462 of fluid transport module coupling portion
420. The coupling between heating elements 452 and 462, and return
line portions 464 and 454, in one embodiment, is achieved using
terminal blocks, such as that shown in FIG. 4B. However, in other
embodiments, other electronic coupling mechanisms may be used, for
example spade terminal connectors are also used. In one embodiment,
each fluid line requires its own return line for each section.
However, as described below with respect to FIG. 5, some plural
component systems may be able to share a return line, reducing the
amount of wires required for a control loop within a plural
component system.
[0048] Previous designs have coupled a return line to an internal
heating component, such that both the heating component and return
line travel within a fluid conduit. Separating the return line from
the internal heating component reduces the risk of component
failure, and also allows for improved access to the return line.
Since only the internal heating component is traveling through a
fluid conduit at a time, higher quantities of heat can be provided.
Additionally, having only one wire, or one wire heating system,
within a fluid conduit also allows for a design where no tight bend
is required at an outlet point, such as an applicator, while still
completing a control loop. Additionally, fixing the wire at one or
more modular connection points ensures that the wire does not move
around as much within the fluid conduit, potentially causing
damage. Additionally, separating the return wire from the
internally heated hose may allow for improved access for
repair.
[0049] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of an example of a
plural component modular fluid delivery system in accordance with
an embodiment of the present invention. While embodiments described
herein thus have been described in the context of a single fluid
transport system, it is also to be understood that such systems may
operate in parallel, as well as in series, in order to provide
plural components from multiple fluid sources to a single fluid
outlet. System 500 illustrates one example transport system for a
plural component system.
[0050] In one embodiment, a first fluid component is received at a
first component inlet 502, where it travels through a first
component first fluid transport module 512, a first component
second fluid transport module 518, and exits through an outlet 524.
First component inlet coupling mechanism 506, in one embodiment, is
configured to receive fluid, from a fluid source, through inlet
502, and receive a first electronics component from electronics
source 505. Electronics source 505, in one embodiment, is
configured to provide a source of internal heat to each of fluid
component lines 512 and 562. In one embodiment, electronics source
505 is communicably coupled to a controller, such that a first
amount of electricity is provided to heat a first component to a
desired temperature as it travels from inlet 502 to outlet 524, and
a second amount of electricity is provided to a second component to
a desired temperature as it travels from inlet 562 to outlet 574.
First inlet coupling mechanism 506 may also be configured to
receive an incoming ground wire 504, in one embodiment.
[0051] In one embodiment, first component inlet coupling mechanism
506 comprises a cover 530 with one or more cover fasteners 532. In
one embodiment, first component first fluid transport module 512 is
internally heated, such that first component inlet coupling
mechanism 506 is configured to join electronics received from inlet
505 with first component fluid line 502, such that an internal
heating mechanism travels through first component fluid conduit 512
to a first component first connecting mechanism 514.
[0052] First component first connecting mechanism 514 is configured
to couple to first component second connecting mechanism 516, such
that a first fluid transport module 582 is coupled to a second
fluid transport module 584 between inlet 502 and outlet 524. The
connection between modules 514 and 516, in one embodiment,
comprises both an electrical and a hydraulic coupling. For example,
the coupling may be similar to that illustrated in FIG. 4B, such
that a heating element within conduit 512 is separated out from a
fluid conduit within module 514, and the hydraulic component and
electric component are separately coupled at first component
connection point 515.
[0053] In one embodiment, first component second connecting
mechanism 516 is configured to receive a heating element from first
component first connecting mechanism 514, and provide the heating
element back into fluid path 518 of fluid transport module 584,
such that fluid traveling through conduit 518 is internally heated.
First component fluid conduit 518, in one embodiment, couples to a
first component outlet coupling mechanism 520.
[0054] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, fluid transport
modules 582 and 584 are connected in series, however it is to be
understood that more than two fluid transport modules may be
connected, in other embodiments, for example three, four, or more.
Each of fluid transport modules 582 and 584 may be much longer than
indicated in FIG. 5, which shows only a portion of each fluid line
512 and 518. However, each fluid module may be any length--for
example 10 feet, 20 feet, 50 feet, 100 feet, or any other
selectable length. For ease of explanation, each of modules 582 and
584 are described as substantially 100 feet in length, when empty.
A user may, using multiple fluid transport modules, be able to
couple multiple module fluid lines together in order to achieve a
fluid delivery path of substantially 200, 300, 400, 500 feet or
higher, depending on the fluid application at hand. First component
outlet coupling mechanism 520, in one embodiment, is configured to
provide fluid from first component fluid conduit 518, to an
applicator. However, when not in use, first component inlet
coupling mechanism 520 may be configured to receive a first
component outlet cover 522, for example in order to protect
electronics from damage. Electronics may, therefore, in one
embodiment, be configured to couple to a sensor at a first
component inlet coupling mechanism 520, for example such that a
user can monitor an applicator temperature or pressure at an
applicator.
[0055] As illustrated in FIG. 5, each of coupling components 506,
512, 514 and 520 may comprise covers 530, with fasteners 532, such
that electronic housings are protected from damage, or contact with
insulation which is often provided around each of the component
fluid paths.
[0056] A second plural component may travel along a second
component fluid path extending between a second fluid inlet 562 to
a second fluid outlet 574, as illustrated in FIG. 5. Second
component fluid line 562, in one embodiment, is internally heated.
The electronics for both lines 512 and 562, in one embodiment, are
provided by a single inlet 505, such that electronics inlet 505
provides an internal heating component 565 to a second component
inlet coupling mechanism 566, such that second component module
fluid lines 562 and 568 are internally heated. However, in other
embodiments, each fluid line receives a separate electronics inlet.
Second component inlet coupling mechanism 566 may also be
configured to receive a ground 564, in one embodiment. First and
second component inlet coupling mechanisms 566 and 506 may be
physically coupled together, in one embodiment, in order to prevent
jostling or misalignment within a hose covering. Physical coupling
may also provide stabilization for component 565, in one
embodiment. First and second component inlet coupling mechanisms
506 and 566 may be shaped to accommodate shared electronics return
line 550, in one embodiment. One or more fasteners 552 may be
configured to couple first and second component inlet coupling
mechanisms 506 and 566 together.
[0057] Second component first fluid conduit 562 may be configured
to couple, in one embodiment, to second component second fluid
conduit 568 by a coupling between coupling components 564 and 566.
Coupling components 565 and 566 may be configured to, in
combination, separate and rejoin a heating element from a fluid
conduit, such that both electronic and hydraulic couplings are
provide between fluid conduits 562 and 568, of fluid transport
modules 592 and 594, respectively. In one embodiment, internal
fasteners 554 may be configured to join one or more of coupling
components 565 and 566 of second component fluid path 560, to one
or more of coupling components 514 and 516 of first component fluid
path 510. In one embodiment, second component second module fluid
line 568 is configured to deliver fluid to a second component
outlet coupling mechanism 570. Second component outlet coupling
mechanism 570 may be coupled to first component outlet coupling
mechanism 520, in one embodiment, by one or more outlet fasteners
556. In one embodiment, second component outlet coupling mechanism
570 is configured to deliver fluid to an outlet 574. However, when
not in use, second component outlet coupling mechanism 570 may
comprise a cover 572 configured to protect an electronics outlet
from damage when not in use.
[0058] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a method of using a fluid
application system in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention. Method 600 may comprise a method of use for any of the
embodiments described with respect to FIGS. 1-5, for example, or
any other appropriate modular fluid application system.
[0059] At block 610 a pump is engaged. In one embodiment, the pump
is configured to provide fluid for a high pressure application, for
example as indicated in block 602, or a low pressure spraying
application, for example as indicated at block 604. High pressure
may comprise fluid exiting an applicator at, for example
substantially 3,000 PSI or higher. Low pressure applications, as
indicated in block 604 may comprise fluid releasing the fluid
exiting the applicator at substantially lower pressures, for
example between 1,000 and 2,000 PSI, or lower pressure. However,
engaging the pump, as indicated in block 610, may comprise fluid
leaving the pump at higher pressures, in order to account for
pressure losses as the fluid is delivered through a transport
system, for example a fluid hose.
[0060] At block 620, the fluid is initially heated. Many
applications require fluid to be heated to an application
temperature, as indicated in block 612. The fluid may be heated by
a heating system to an application temperature, such that a fluid
transport system only needs to maintain that temperature during
transportation to an application point. In another embodiment,
heating a fluid comprises heating a fluid to a temperature below an
application temperature, as indicated in block 614. In some
embodiments, a high precision of temperature accuracy may be
required, such that internally heated transport system is used to
bring the fluid the application temperature, which may provide
greater control than using an initial heating assembly, and
attempting to account for heat loss through a transport system. In
one embodiment, heating the fluid in block 620 comprises heating
the fluid to a temperature above the application temperature 616,
such that temperature losses occurring over a fluid transport
system bring the temperature to a desired application
temperature.
[0061] At block 630, fluid is transported to an application site.
In one embodiment, transporting fluid comprises providing the
fluid, under pressure, to an applicator. Transporting fluid may
comprise use of internally heated fluid conduits, for example fluid
hoses with an internal heating source, such as a wire or wire
bundle, as indicated in block 622. In one embodiment, transporting
the fluid comprises transporting the fluid through a series of
fluid transport modules, as indicated in block 624, between an
initial pressurization/heating point and an applicator. Using
multiple modules aligned in series may provide some advantages,
such that a user can use the same module for multiple applications,
for example a 100-foot fluid transport module can also be used as
part of a 200 foot internally heated fluid transport assembly.
[0062] In block 640, a fluid is applied. In one embodiment,
applying a fluid comprises an applicator at least partially
atomizing the fluid in a fluid spray. Fluid at the applicator may
be required to have an applicator temperature, as indicated in
block 632, an applicator pressure, as indicated in block 634, and
an applicator flow rate, as indicated in block 636. The ability to
control these three process variables may allow for greater
consistency in applications from operation to operation. Therefore,
it is important that the fluid is not just initially heated,
pressurized, and delivered at the desired flow rate by a pump, it
also needs to arrive at the applicator with the necessary process
parameters. Therefore, in at least some embodiments, transporting
the fluid through modular, internally heated components allows for
better control over these process variables to better fit a greater
range of fluid application operations.
[0063] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of a method of assembling a modular
fluid delivery system in accordance with an embodiment of the
present invention. Method 700 may be useful for a user needing to
extend a fluid transport system across a greater range between a
pumping location and an application site.
[0064] At block 710, a first fluid transport module is obtained.
The first fluid transport module may contain a fluid conduit
configured to receive fluid at a first end and deliver fluid at a
second end. The conduit may be configured for internal heating, as
indicated in block 702. The first module obtained in block 710 may
also be self-contained, as indicated in block 704, such that a user
can connect the fluid transport module to any of a second fluid
transport module, an inlet (E.g. a fluid source), or an outlet
(e.g. an applicator) using a coupling mechanism at a connection
point on either end of the fluid transport module.
[0065] At block 720, the first fluid transport module is positioned
at a coupling point. In one embodiment, positioning a module at a
coupling point comprises positioning a connection mechanism of the
first fluid transport module such that it can be connected to a
connection mechanism of a second module, as indicated in block 712.
In another embodiment, positioning a coupling point of a first
fluid transport module comprises positioning the first fluid
transport module such that it can connect to an inlet connection
mechanism, as indicated in block 714, for example in order to
couple to a pumping assembly, a heating assembly, or to a fluid
source. In another embodiment, positing the first fluid transport
module at a coupling point comprises positing the first fluid
transport module such that it is configured to couple to an outlet
connection mechanism, as indicated in block 716, such that it can
be connected to an applicator, for example.
[0066] In block 730, electronics are coupled between a first fluid
transportation module and a coupling point, for example a second
fluid transportation module. In one embodiment, coupling
electronics comprises coupling a heating element of the first fluid
transportation module across the coupling point, as indicated in
block 722, such that an internal heating is applied across the
coupling, for example. In one embodiment, coupling the electronics
comprises coupling a control signal, or return line, as indicated
in block 724, such that a control loop is communicably coupled
across the coupling point. In one embodiment, coupling electronics
comprises introducing some slack into the system, as indicated in
block 726. Heating elements may initially be installed within each
fluid transportation module such that when coupled, some slack is
introduced, such that the length of the heating element is greater
than that of the fluid conduit. When a fluid delivery system is
cold (not heated in operation), a heating element may be in a
contracted position. Unintended jostling of the heating element
within a hose may cause damage to the heating element, as the hose
when cold, may be in an expanded position. However, introducing
slack into the electronics, as indicated in block 726, may comprise
introducing enough slack such that, when the fluid transportation
module is in a heated position (in operation) the heating element
will be in an expanded position, and the tubing will be in a
contracted position, as its diameter expands with fluid.
[0067] At block 740, hydraulics are coupled across a coupling
point. In one embodiment, this comprises coupling a first fluid
conduit, of a first fluid transportation module, to a second fluid
conduit, of a second fluid transportation module. In one
embodiment, coupling hydraulics and coupling electronics, as
indicated in blocks 740 and 730, respectively, occurs substantially
simultaneously as a user couples one connecting mechanism of a
first fluid transport module to a connection mechanism of a second
fluid transport module.
[0068] At block 750, the steps indicated in blocks 720, 730, and
740 are repeated as necessary to achieve a fluid transport system
of a desired length. For example, in one embodiment, each fluid
transportation module comprises a fluid conduit of substantially
100 feet in length. Therefore, for an operation requiring a
300-foot fluid transport system, as indicated in block 750, the
steps indicated in block 720, 730, and 740 may be repeated two more
times in order to achieve the desired length. However, each fluid
transportation module can comprise any length, for example 10 feet,
20 feet, 50 feet, 100 feet, or any other suitable length.
[0069] At block 760, insulation is applied to the fluid delivery
assembly. In one embodiment, insulation is applied to fluid
delivery modules, coupled in series and/or in parallel, prior to a
final coupling between the fluid delivery assembly and a fluid
source or a fluid applicator. In one embodiment, insulating the
fluid delivery assembly comprises applying a non-conductive sleeve
or coating. The sleeve may be a removeable sleeve, such that a user
can remove it to repair damaged fluid transport modules, or to
reconfigure a fluid delivery assembly.
[0070] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrates close-up views of inlet and
outlet coupling portions for a plural component modular fluid
assembly in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. In some embodiments of the present invention, modular
fluid delivery systems are configured to interconnect, such that a
user can create a fluid delivery system with any desired length.
However, in some embodiments, each modular fluid delivery system
has directionality, such that only one end is configured to receive
an incoming fluid, and one end is configured to output a fluid.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the modular fluid delivery
section configured to couple to a pumping assembly is different
than a modular fluid assembly portion that couples internally.
Therefore, in some embodiments, modular fluid delivery portions
comprise different coupling portions at either end.
[0071] FIG. 8A illustrates one embodiment of an inlet coupling
component 800. Inlet coupling component 800 is illustrated for a
plural component system, and is configured to receive a first inlet
component at a fluid inlet and a second inlet component at a second
inlet (not shown). Inlet coupling component 800 is also configured
to couple to an incoming electrical return line 818 and output an
electrical return line 808. Additionally, in one embodiment, inlet
coupling component 800 is also configured to receive an incoming
ground line 806.
[0072] FIG. 8A shows a detailed view of electrical and fluid
couplings within individual component coupling casings 820. As
shown in FIG. 8A, and as described previously with other
embodiments, inlet coupling component 800 is configured to receive
an incoming fluid source and provide an internally heated fluid
output, as indicated by outputs 814 and 812 for each of the plural
components. The inlet coupling component 800 is configured to
receive electronics, and provide internal heating elements to each
of the outgoing internally heated component lines (i.e., outputs
814 and 812).
[0073] FIG. 8B illustrates one embodiment of an outlet coupling
component 830. Outlet coupling component 830 is configured to
receive incoming plural component fluid channels 822 and 824, each
of which is internally heated, as illustrated in FIG. 8B. Outlet
coupling component 830 is configured to separate the internal
heating elements such that fluid can be provided to an outlet 844
for the first plural component, and an outlet for the second plural
component (not shown in FIG. 8B). In one embodiment, outlet
coupling component 830 comprises caps 832 and 834, associated with
the first and second plural components. Caps 832 and 834 are
configured to couple to the electrical elements at the end of the
fluid transport assembly and provide an electrical bridge between a
spade connector and a round connector.
[0074] FIGS. 9A-9C illustrate close-up views of inlet, outlet, and
internal coupling portions of a plural component modular fluid
delivery system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9A-9C, a single
electrical line 908 is used to provide both a heat source and a
return line for the electrical power. Such an embodiment may
provide the same amount of heat for each of the plural components.
This may be a less desirable configuration in the case where there
is a difference in chemical viscosities between plural components
in internally heated plural component lines 912 and 914, and may
create an imbalance in pressures at the spray gun between the two
plural components. Inlet coupling component 900 comprises an inlet
for a first plural component 902, an inlet for a second component
904, an incoming ground line 906, and an electronics output.
[0075] FIG. 9B illustrates an outlet coupling component 930
configured to receive incoming internally heated plural component
lines 912 and 914, and outputting plural component fluid channel
924 and an outlet for a second plural component (not shown). The
outlet coupling portion is configured to separate the heating
element from each of the internally heated lines 912 and 914, and
provide the element of each of lines 912 and 914 to caps 932 and
934, respectively. Caps 932 and 934 are configured to couple to the
electrical elements at the end of the fluid transport assembly and
provide an electrical bridge between a spade connector and a round
connector.
[0076] FIG. 9C illustrates an internal coupling for a plural
component fluid delivery system. Incoming fluid lines 954 are
configured to couple to outgoing fluid lines 962 at a fluid
coupling 964. Incoming electronics 956 are separated from each of
the incoming fluid lines, and are configured to couple to outgoing
electronics 968 at electrical coupling points 966, as indicated in
FIG. 9C. The fluid coupling 964 and electrical coupling 966 are
configured to happen at the joining of each of the internal
coupling components 970 and 972. As illustrated in FIG. 9C, inlet
internal coupling component 970 has a directionality, and may, for
example, couple to inlet coupling component 900. Internal coupling
component 972 also has a directionality and may, for example,
couple to outlet coupling component 930. As illustrated in FIG. 9C,
plural component modular delivery systems may have internal
coupling components (for example 970 and 972) configured such that
a mirror axis 960 exists between the two, as shown in FIG. 9C.
Internal coupling components 970 and 972 may also be configured to
receive an incoming return line 952 and couple it to an outgoing
return line 953 at an internal coupling plane 974.
[0077] FIGS. 10A-10D illustrate views of modular fluid transport
assembly components for a single fluid line in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. While some embodiments
described herein have illustrated modular fluid transport systems
in the context of plural components, modular fluid transport
assemblies can also be useful for internally heating and
transporting a single fluid component. In some embodiments, single
fluid transport assemblies also have coupling components with
directionality, such that one fluid transport assembly may, for
example, be configured to couple to a fluid inlet and an internal
coupling point, while a second fluid transport assembly may be
configured to couple to an internal coupling point and an outlet,
while a third may, for example, only be configured to couple to
internal coupling points.
[0078] FIG. 10A illustrates an inlet coupling component 1000
configured to receive an incoming fluid at fluid inlet 1002 and
output an electronics line 1004. Inlet coupling portion 1000 may
also be configured to receive an incoming ground line 1006. As
illustrated in FIG. 10A, an outgoing fluid line 1012 is configured
to receive an electronics line 1010, which is configured to provide
internal heating. Additionally, inlet coupling component 1000
receives an incoming electronics line 1014. Inlet coupling portion
also comprises a housing 1020.
[0079] FIG. 10B illustrates an internal coupling between an
outgoing internal component 1040 and an incoming internal component
1050. Internal coupling components 1040 and 1050 may be configured,
in one embodiment, to couple along coupling plane 1060. Fluid may
come in through fluid inlet 1032 within an internal electronics
component 1036, separated from the fluid channel within housing
1040, coupled to a corresponding electronics component 1056 across
a coupling plane 1060, such that an internally heated fluid line
1052 exits coupling component 1050. Electronics component 1036 is
configured to couple to electronics line 1056 across a coupling
plane at an electronics coupling point 1046. Incoming fluid line
1032 is configured to couple to outgoing fluid line 1052 at fluid
coupling point 1042 which may also be within coupling plane 1060.
Additionally, in one embodiment, a return line 1054 enters internal
coupling component 1050, and couples to exiting return line 1044
across coupling plane 1060.
[0080] FIG. 10C illustrates one embodiment of an outlet coupling
component 1070 for a single component modular fluid transport
assembly. Incoming fluid line 1072 is configured to enter outlet
coupling portion 1070, and fluid is configured to exit, for example
as indicated at outlet 1082. Outlet coupling component 1070 is
configured to separate electronics component 1076, and provide a
coupling to an endcap 1088. Cap 1088 may also be configured to
output a return line 1084 which is configured to exit outlet
coupling component 1070 as return line 1074. Cap 1088, in one
embodiment, is configured to couple to the electrical elements at
the end of the fluid transport assembly and provide an electrical
bridge between a spade connector and a round connector.
[0081] FIG. 10D illustrates a full view of a modular fluid delivery
assembly for a single fluid component 1090 comprising, for example,
inlet component 1000, internal components 1040 and 1050, and outlet
component 1070.
[0082] Fluid transport modules have been described herein with
regard to different features which are described as examples only,
and not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. For
example, modules have been described with fluid hosing comprising
100 feet in length. However, it is to be understood that different
modules of different sizes may be useful for other embodiments. For
example, a single fluid transport module may comprise fluid tubing
comprising 10 feet, 25 feet, 50 feet, 100 feet, or any other
desired length that may be useful by a user. Additionally, a user
may be able to purchase different modules of differing lengths in
order to achieve the desired fluid delivery system length for a
specific application.
[0083] Although the present invention has been described with
reference to preferred embodiments, workers skilled in the art will
recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
* * * * *