阅读说明：本技术 低温罐控制系统、截止阀和电磁阀 (Low temperature tank control system, stop valve and solenoid valve ) 是由 M·K·哈姆 曹广滨 于 2018-06-13 设计创作，主要内容包括：公开了一种用于与具有阀座(7112)的阀体(7000)一起使用的阀组合件(6000),所述阀组合件(6000)包括：筒(6200),所述筒与所述阀体(7000)螺纹接合并且延伸远离所述阀体；提升阀(6500),所述提升阀与所述筒(6200)滑动接合；板(6600),所述板与所述提升阀(6500)接合；柱塞(6400),所述柱塞与所述筒(6200)滑动接合并可滑动地延伸穿过所述板(6600)；以及固位器(6450),所述固位器捕获在所述板(6600)与所述提升阀(6500)的表面之间,其中所述固位器(6450)与所述柱塞(6400)螺纹接合。所述阀组合件(6000)可以调节流体流量。(A valve assembly (6000) for use with a valve body (7000) having a valve seat (7112) is disclosed, the valve assembly (6000) comprising: a barrel (6200) threadedly engaged with the valve body (7000) and extending away from the valve body; a poppet valve (6500) in sliding engagement with the cartridge (6200); a plate (6600) engaged with the poppet valve (6500); a plunger (6400) in sliding engagement with the barrel (6200) and slidably extending through the plate (6600); and a retainer (6450) captured between surfaces of the plate (6600) and the poppet valve (6500), wherein the retainer (6450) is in threaded engagement with the plunger (6400). The valve assembly (6000) can regulate fluid flow.)

1. A valve assembly for use with a valve body having a valve seat, the valve assembly comprising:

a barrel threadedly engaged with the valve body and extending away from the valve body;

a poppet in sliding engagement with the cartridge;

a plate engaged with the poppet;

a plunger in sliding engagement with the barrel and slidably extending through the plate; and

a retainer captured between the plate and a surface of the poppet valve, wherein the retainer is in threaded engagement with the plunger.

2. The valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising a spring disposed in a recess defined by the poppet valve, the spring biasing the retainer away from the plate.

3. The valve assembly of claim 2, wherein when the valve assembly is in a closed position, a valve seat piece retained on the poppet valve is seated in the valve seat and the spring expands until the retainer contacts an inner surface of the poppet valve.

4. The valve assembly of claim 2, wherein when the valve assembly is in the intermediate position, a valve seat piece retained on the poppet valve is seated in the valve seat, the retainer contacts the plate, and the spring compresses.

5. The valve assembly of claim 2, wherein when the valve assembly is in a partially open position, the retainer contacts the plate, the spring compresses, the plunger contacts an inner surface of the barrel, and a valve seat piece retained on the poppet valve does not move away from the valve seat.

6. The valve assembly of claim 2, wherein when the valve assembly is in a fully open position, the plunger contacts a first inner surface of the cartridge, the spring expands until the retainer contacts a second inner surface of the cartridge, and a valve seat piece retained on the poppet valve retracts away from the valve seat.

7. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein

The plunger and the retainer move together relative to the barrel,

the poppet and the plate move together relative to the cartridge,

when the retainer contacts the plate, the poppet, the plate, the plunger, and the retainer move together in a first direction relative to the cartridge, and

when the retainer contacts the poppet valve, the plate, the plunger, and the retainer move together in a second direction relative to the cartridge.

8. The valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising a step defined by the valve body and a gasket disposed between the cartridge and the step.

9. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the poppet valve includes a guide flange configured to slidingly engage a cylindrical region of the valve body.

10. The valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising

An internal step defined by the plunger;

a flanged pin slidably disposed in the plunger and retained by the internal step; and

a spring disposed in the plunger, the spring biasing the flanged pin away from the retainer.

11. The valve assembly of claim 10, wherein the spring urges the flanged pin into contact with an inner surface of the barrel.

12. The valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising an electromagnetic coil disposed about the barrel to selectively move the plunger axially toward and away from the valve body.

13. The valve assembly of claim 12, further comprising a flange and a threaded end defined by the barrel and a nut in threaded engagement with the threaded end to capture the electromagnetic coil between the nut and the threaded end.

14. The valve assembly of claim 12, wherein the barrel has a thin-walled region such that magnetic attraction between the electromagnetic coil and the plunger is reduced along the thin-walled region.

15. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the plunger, the plate, the retainer, and the poppet are slidably removable from the cartridge as a unit.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to a cryogenic tank control system for regulating fluid in a cryogenic tank, a shut-off valve for regulating fluid flow, and a solenoid valve for regulating fluid flow.

Background

The cryogenic tank control system includes several components welded to the cryogenic tank and used to regulate the fluid in the cryogenic tank. Cryogenic tanks typically contain a liquid (e.g., natural gas liquid) and a gas in a headspace above the liquid. Typical cryogenic tank control systems include various pressure relief devices (e.g., valves and/or burst discs) for relieving pressure in the headspace when the pressure exceeds a certain threshold. A typical cryogenic tank control system also includes a pressure-building circuit (pressure-building circuit) consisting of a plurality of valves and vaporizer coils for converting some of the liquid in the cryogenic tank to a gas and introducing the gas into the headspace within the cryogenic tank. A typical cryogenic tank control system also includes an economizer circuit including a plurality of valves for distributing the overpressure gas from the headspace within the cryogenic tank to customer equipment.

Typical shut-off valves are used to deliver fluid and regulate the flow of fluid. A typical shut-off valve includes a valve body defining an inlet in fluid communication with an outlet and a valve seat located between the inlet and the outlet. A typical shut-off valve comprises a handwheel attached to one end of a valve stem and a seat disc (seat disc) connected to the other end of the valve stem. The valve stem may be moved by rotating the hand wheel between a closed position in which the valve seat insert sealingly engages the valve seat to prevent fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet, and an open position in which the valve seat insert is disengaged from the valve seat to enable fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet.

Typical solenoid valves are used to regulate the flow of fluid through the valve body. A typical solenoid valve is mounted to a valve body and contains a solenoid that can be energized to open (in the case of a normally closed valve) or close (in the case of a normally open valve) the valve. Such opening or closing prevents or enables fluid flow through the solenoid valve depending on the configuration.

Disclosure of Invention

Various embodiments of the present disclosure provide a cryogenic tank control system for regulating fluid within a cryogenic tank. The cryogenic tank control system comprises: a pressure relief and venting module fluidly connectable to a headspace above a liquid within the cryogenic tank; a manual valve module fluidly connectable to the liquid and an external device within the cryogenic tank; a solenoid valve module fluidly connectable to the manual valve module and the headspace within the cryogenic tank; an accumulation coil fluidly connectable to the manual valve module and the solenoid valve module; and a controller operatively connected to the solenoid valve module to control fluid flow through the solenoid valve module.

In operation, the pressure relief and venting module is configured to protect the cryogenic tank from overpressure and enable an operator to vent gas from the interior of the cryogenic tank. In operation, the assembly of the manual valve module and the solenoid valve module forms a pressure build circuit that enables an operator to increase the gas pressure in the cryogenic tank and introduce gas into the cryogenic tank by vaporizing some of the liquid in the cryogenic tank through the accumulation coil into the gas. The assembly of the manual valve module enables the operator to dispense liquid from within the cryogenic tank to the external device. The components of the manual valve module and the solenoid valve module form an economizer circuit that enables an operator to distribute gas from within the cryogenic tank to the external device.

The application is defined by the appended claims. This description summarizes various aspects of the exemplary embodiments and should not be used to limit the claims. Other embodiments are contemplated in accordance with the techniques described herein, as will be apparent upon review of the following figures and detailed description, and such embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the present application.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a block diagram of one embodiment of a cryogenic tank control system of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 is a block diagram of the cryogenic tank control system of fig. 1 illustrating fluid flow through the cryogenic tank control system when the accumulation valve is in an open configuration, the accumulation solenoid valve is energized, and the economizer solenoid valve is not energized.

Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the cryogenic tank control system of fig. 1 illustrating fluid flow through the cryogenic tank control system when the service valve is in an open configuration, the economizer solenoid valve is energized, and the accumulation solenoid valve is not energized.

Fig. 4 is a block diagram of the cryogenic tank control system of fig. 1 illustrating fluid flow through the cryogenic tank control system when the service valve is in an open configuration and the accumulation solenoid valve and the economizer solenoid valve are not energized.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a shut-off valve of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the valve body of the shut-off valve of FIG. 5.

Fig. 6B is a perspective view of the valve body of fig. 6A.

FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of the compression nut of the shut-off valve of FIG. 5.

Fig. 7B is a perspective view of the compression nut of fig. 7A.

Fig. 8A is a cross-sectional view of the upper stem (spindle) of the stop valve of fig. 5.

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the upper valve stem of FIG. 8A.

FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view of the lower stem of the shut-off valve of FIG. 5.

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the lower stem of FIG. 9A.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of a solenoid valve assembly of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a coil assembly of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a cartridge (cartridge) of the solenoid valve assembly of fig. 10.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a nut of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a plunger of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of a poppet valve (poppet) of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10.

Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of a retainer of the solenoid valve assembly of fig. 10.

Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a valve seat insert of the solenoid valve assembly of fig. 10.

FIG. 18A is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10 with the solenoid valve in a closed configuration.

FIG. 18B is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10 with the solenoid valve in a first intermediate configuration.

FIG. 18C is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10 with the solenoid valve in a second intermediate configuration.

FIG. 18D is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of FIG. 10 with the solenoid valve in an open configuration.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a pressure relief device and exhaust module of the present disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a solenoid valve assembly of the present disclosure.

FIG. 21 is another perspective view of a second embodiment of a solenoid valve assembly of the present disclosure.

Fig. 22A is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of fig. 20 and 21 with the solenoid valve in a closed configuration.

Fig. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of fig. 20 and 21 with the solenoid valve in an intermediate configuration.

Fig. 22C is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of fig. 20 and 21 with the solenoid valve in a partially open configuration.

Fig. 22D is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly of fig. 20 and 21 with the solenoid valve in a fully open configuration.

Detailed Description

The following description describes, illustrates, and exemplifies one or more embodiments of the present disclosure according to the principles thereof. This description is not provided to limit the disclosure to the embodiments described herein, but rather to explain and teach the principles of the disclosure to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to understand these principles and, with an understanding of the principles, to be used to practice the embodiments described herein and other embodiments that may be conceived in light of these principles.

The scope of the disclosure is intended to cover all such embodiments as may come within the scope of the following claims, either literally or under the doctrine of equivalents. This specification describes exemplary embodiments that are not intended to limit the claims. Features described in this specification but not set forth in the claims are not intended to limit the claims.

In the description and drawings, similar or substantially similar elements may be referred to by the same reference numerals. Sometimes these elements may be labeled with different numbers, as in the case where such labeling helps to make the description clearer. Additionally, the drawings set forth herein are not necessarily drawn to scale and, in some instances, may be exaggerated in scale to more clearly depict certain features. Such labeling and practice of the drawings do not necessarily imply essential material objectives.

Some features may be described using relative terms such as top, bottom, vertical, right, left, and the like. These relative terms are provided for reference with respect to the drawings only and are not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments. More specifically, the components depicted in the figures may, in practice, be oriented in different directions and the relative orientations of the features may vary accordingly.

As mentioned above, the present specification is intended to be interpreted as a whole and in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure as taught herein and understood by those of ordinary skill in the art.

Fig. 1 illustrates one example embodiment of a cryogenic tank control system 10 of the present disclosure. The cryogenic tank control system 10 may be fluidly connected to the cryogenic tank 1000 and may be used to regulate liquids and gases stored therein. The portion of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000 that contains liquid is referred to herein as the liquid containing portion 1000a, and the portion of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000 that contains gas is referred to herein as the gas containing portion 1000 b. The volumes of the liquid containing part 1000a and the gas containing part 1000b may vary as liquid and gas are added to and dispensed from the cryogenic tank 1000. In this embodiment, the cryogenic tank control system 10 includes a pressure relief and vent module 100, a manual valve module 200, a solenoid valve module 300, an accumulation coil 400, a pressure sensor 500, a controller 510, and an injection valve 600.

The pressure relief and vent module 100 includes a pressure relief and vent module housing 105, a pressure relief valve 110 mounted to or integrated into the pressure relief and vent module housing 105, a pressure relief device 120 mounted to or integrated into the pressure relief and vent module housing 105, a vent valve 130 mounted to or integrated into the pressure relief and vent module housing 105, and a vent receptacle 140 mounted to or integrated into the pressure relief and vent module housing 105.

Pressure relief valve 110 may be any suitable reclosing pressure relief valve having an inlet and an outlet and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In this embodiment, relief valve 110 is a spring-loaded relief valve. A suitable biasing member normally biases pressure relief valve 110 to a closed configuration to prevent fluid from flowing through the pressure relief valve from the inlet of pressure relief valve 110 to the outlet thereof. When the pressure of the fluid at the inlet of pressure relief valve 110 exceeds a first pressure threshold P1, such as 275 pounds per square inch (psi) (or any other suitable value), the fluid forces pressure relief valve 110 to move from a closed configuration to an open configuration to enable fluid to flow through the pressure relief valve from the inlet of pressure relief valve 110 to the outlet thereof. Then, when the pressure of the fluid at the inlet drops below the first pressure threshold, the biasing member forces the pressure relief valve 110 to move from the open configuration to the closed configuration to again prevent the fluid from flowing through the pressure relief valve from the inlet of the pressure relief valve 110 to the outlet thereof.

Pressure relief device 120 may be any suitable non-reclosing pressure relief device, such as a rupture disc. The pressure relief device 120 has an inlet and is configured to prevent fluid from flowing from the inlet through the pressure relief device 120 when intact. When the pressure of the fluid at the inlet exceeds a second pressure threshold P2, such as 350psi (or any other suitable value), which is greater than the first pressure threshold P1, the pressure relief device 120 ruptures or otherwise permanently deforms to form an outlet, thereby enabling fluid to flow through the pressure relief device from the inlet of the (ruptured) pressure relief device 120 to the outlet thereof. In other embodiments, the pressure relief device 120 may be any suitable pressure relief device, such as a recloser pressure relief valve.

The vent valve 130 may be any suitable valve having an inlet and an outlet and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In this embodiment, the exhaust valve 130 is a manually operable valve that enables an operator to manually move the exhaust valve 130 between the open and closed configurations, such as by turning a hand wheel. When the vent valve 130 is in the open configuration, fluid may flow through the vent valve from the inlet of the vent valve 130 to the outlet thereof. When the vent valve 130 is in the closed configuration, the vent valve 130 prevents fluid from flowing through the vent valve from the inlet of the vent valve 130 to the outlet thereof.

The venting container 140 may be any suitable device having an inlet and an outlet that may be fluidly connected to an external device (such as a gasoline station device) via a threaded connector, a quick release connector, or any other suitable connector.

The manual valve module 200 includes a manual valve module housing 205, an accumulation valve 210 mounted to or integrated into the manual valve module housing 205, a check valve 220 mounted to or integrated into the manual valve module housing 205, a service valve 230 mounted to or integrated into the manual valve module housing 205, and an overflow valve 240 mounted to or integrated into the manual valve module housing 205.

The accumulation valve 210 may be any suitable valve having an inlet and an outlet and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, such as the valves described below with respect to fig. 5-9B. In this embodiment, the accumulation valve 210 is a manually operable valve that enables an operator to manually move the accumulation valve 210 between the open and closed configurations, such as by turning a handwheel or using a tool to rotate components of the accumulation valve 210. When the accumulation valve 210 is in the open configuration, fluid may flow through the accumulation valve from the inlet of the accumulation valve 210 to the outlet thereof. When the accumulation valve 210 is in the closed configuration, the accumulation valve 210 prevents fluid from flowing through the accumulation valve from the inlet of the accumulation valve 210 to the outlet thereof.

Check valve 220 may be any suitable check valve, such as a spring-loaded check valve, having an inlet and an outlet and configured to enable fluid flow from its inlet to its outlet and prevent fluid flow from its outlet to its inlet.

The service valve 230 may be any suitable valve having an inlet and an outlet and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, such as the valves described below with respect to fig. 5-9B. In this embodiment, the service valve 230 is a manually operable valve that enables an operator to manually move the service valve 230 between the open and closed configurations, such as by turning a handwheel or using a tool to rotate components of the service valve 230. When the service valve 230 is in the open configuration, fluid may flow through the service valve from the inlet of the service valve 230 to the outlet thereof. When the service valve 230 is in the closed configuration, the service valve 230 prevents fluid from flowing through the service valve from the inlet of the service valve 230 to the outlet thereof.

The relief valve 240 is any suitable relief valve having an inlet and an outlet. The excess flow valve 240 is configured to prevent fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet (and vice versa) when a flow rate of fluid through the excess flow valve 240 exceeds a preset threshold. The outlet of the relief valve 240 may be fluidly connected to a user device (not shown) to effect the dispensing of the liquid or gas to the user device.

The solenoid valve module 300 includes a solenoid valve module body 305 defining an accumulation solenoid valve inlet 305a, an economizer solenoid valve outlet 305b, and a combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. The accumulation solenoid valve 310 is mounted to the solenoid valve module body 305 between the accumulation solenoid valve inlet 305a and the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. The economizer solenoid valve 320 is mounted to the solenoid valve module body 305 between the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305c and economizer solenoid valve outlet 305 b.

The accumulation solenoid valve 310 may be any suitable solenoid valve having an open configuration and a closed configuration, biased to the closed configuration, and energizable by an electric current to move from the closed configuration to the open configuration, such as the solenoid valves shown below in fig. 10-18D. When the accumulation solenoid valve 310 is in the closed configuration, the accumulation solenoid valve 310 prevents fluid from flowing through the solenoid valve module 300 from the accumulation solenoid valve inlet 305a to the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. When the accumulation solenoid valve 310 is in the open configuration, the accumulation solenoid valve 310 enables fluid to flow through the solenoid valve module 300 from the accumulation solenoid valve inlet 305a to the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c.

The economizer solenoid valve 320 can be any suitable solenoid valve having an open configuration and a closed configuration, biased to the closed configuration, and energizable by an electric current to move from the closed configuration to the open configuration, such as the solenoid valves shown in fig. 10-18D below. When the economizer solenoid valve 320 is in the closed configuration, the economizer solenoid valve 320 prevents fluid from flowing through the solenoid valve module 300 from the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305c to the economizer solenoid valve outlet 305 b. When the economizer solenoid valve 320 is in the open configuration, the economizer solenoid valve 320 enables fluid flow through the solenoid valve module 300 from the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305c to the economizer solenoid valve outlet 305 b.

Accumulation coil 400 is a suitable vaporization coil having an inlet and an outlet and configured and positioned to convert liquid received from cryogenic tank 1000 into gas. More specifically, the accumulation coil 400 is positioned such that liquid drawn from the cryogenic tank is exposed to a temperature above its boiling point such that the liquid vaporizes as it travels through the accumulation coil 400.

Pressure sensor 500 may be any suitable pressure sensor positioned within gas containing portion 1000b inside cryogenic tank 1000 and configured to sense a pressure PGAS of the gas within gas containing portion 1000 b.

The controller 510 includes a processor and a memory. The processor is configured to execute program code or instructions stored in the memory to perform certain functions as described herein. The processor may be one or more of the following: general purpose processors, content addressable memories, digital signal processors, application specific integrated circuits, field programmable gate arrays, any suitable programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, and any other suitable processing device. The memory is configured to store, maintain, and provide data as needed to support the functions of the cryogenic tank control system 10. For example, in various embodiments, the memory stores program code or instructions that are executable by the processor to perform certain functions. The memory may be any suitable data storage device, such as one or more of the following: volatile memory (e.g., RAM, which may include non-volatile RAM, magnetic RAM, ferroelectric RAM, and any other suitable form); non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, memristor-based non-volatile solid-state memory, etc.); non-alterable memory (e.g., EPROM) and read-only memory. In certain embodiments, the functionality of the controller 510 may be integrated in an Engine Control Unit (ECU) module of the vehicle, in which case the cryotank control system 10 does not contain its own controller and instead relies on the ECU module of the vehicle.

The fill valve 600 may be any suitable valve having an inlet and an outlet and movable between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In this embodiment, the injection valve 600 enables an operator to move the injection valve 600 between the open and closed configurations, such as by pushing on the injection nozzle. When the fill valve 600 is in the open configuration, fluid may flow through the fill valve from an inlet of the fill valve 600 to an outlet thereof. When the fill valve 600 is in the closed configuration, the fill valve 600 prevents fluid from flowing through the fill valve from the inlet of the fill valve 600 to the outlet thereof. In addition, the injection valve 600 includes or is in fluid communication with a suitable check valve 605 configured to prevent fluid flow from the tank gas containing portion 1000b to the outlet of the injection valve 600.

Pressure relief and venting module 100 is in fluid communication with gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 and is fluidly connectable to the atmosphere and external devices, as described below. The cryogenic tank control system 10 and pressure venting and venting module 100 contain suitable connectors and fluid lines and/or define suitable fluid flow passages for achieving the fluid connections described below, but are not shown for clarity.

More specifically, an inlet of the pressure relief valve 110 is in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000, and an outlet of the pressure relief valve 110 is fluidly connectable to the atmosphere. An inlet of the pressure relief device 120 is in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000, and an outlet formed when the pressure relief device 120 is ruptured is in fluid communication with the atmosphere. An inlet of the gas discharge valve 130 is in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000, and an outlet of the gas discharge valve 130 is in fluid communication with an inlet of the gas discharge vessel 140. The inlet of the vent receptacle 140 is in fluid communication with the outlet of the vent valve 130, and the outlet of the vent receptacle 140 may be fluidly connected to an external device (not shown).

Manual valve module 200 is in fluid communication with liquid and gas containing portions 1000a and 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000, accumulation coil 400, and solenoid valve module 300, as described below. The manual valve module 200 may be fluidly connected to a user device to enable dispensing of liquid or gas to the user device, as described below. The cryogenic tank control system 10 and manual valve module 200 contain suitable connectors and fluid lines and/or define suitable fluid flow passages for implementing the fluid connections described below, but are not shown for clarity.

More specifically, an inlet of the accumulation valve 210 is in fluid communication with the liquid containing portion 1000a of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000, and an outlet of the accumulation valve 210 is in fluid communication with an inlet of the accumulation coil 400. The inlet of the check valve 220 is in fluid communication with the liquid containing portion 1000a of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000, and the outlet of the check valve 220 is in fluid communication with both the inlet of the service valve 230 and the economizer solenoid valve outlet 305b of the economizer solenoid valve housing 305. The inlet of the service valve 230 is in fluid communication with both the economizer solenoid valve outlet 305b and the outlet of the check valve 220. The outlet of the service valve 230 is in fluid communication with the inlet of the excess flow valve 240. The outlet of the relief valve 240 may be fluidly connected to a user device to effect the dispensing of liquid or gas to the user device (as described below).

The solenoid valve module 300 is in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000, the accumulation coil 400 and the service valve module 200, as described below. The cryogenic tank control system 10 and solenoid valve module 300 contain suitable connectors and fluid lines and/or define suitable fluid flow passages for achieving the fluid connections described below, but are not shown for clarity.

More specifically, the accumulation solenoid valve inlet 305a is in fluid communication with the outlet of the accumulation coil 400. The economizer solenoid valve outlet 305b is in fluid communication with the outlet of the check valve 220 and the inlet of the service valve 230. The combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305c are in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000. In other embodiments, the accumulation coil 400 is positioned between the accumulation solenoid valve 310 and the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c.

Pressure sensor 500 is communicatively coupled to controller 510 such that pressure sensor 400 may transmit sensed pressure PGAS to controller 510.

The controller 510 is operatively connected to the accumulation solenoid valve 310 and the economizer solenoid valve 320 to independently control movement of those solenoid valves from their respective closed configurations to their respective open configurations based on the sensed pressure PGAS. Specifically, the controller 510 is operatively connected to the accumulation solenoid valve 310 and the economizer solenoid valve 320 to independently energize the coils of those solenoid valves when PGAS is at a particular level. The controller 510 is configured to energize the coil of the accumulation solenoid valve 310 (to move the accumulation solenoid valve to its open configuration) when the pressure PGAS < P3. In this embodiment, P3 is 125psi, but in other embodiments it may be any other suitable value. The controller 510 is configured to energize the coil of the economizer solenoid valve 320 (to move the economizer solenoid valve to its open configuration) when the pressure PGAS > P4. In this embodiment, P4 is 140psi, but in other embodiments it may be any other suitable value. Since P4> P3, in this embodiment, the controller 510 is configured to not energize the coils of the accumulation solenoid valve 310 and the economizer solenoid valve 320 at the same time, and thus the accumulation solenoid valve 310 and the economizer solenoid valve 320 cannot be in their respective open configurations at the same time.

The injection valve 600 is in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000 through a check valve 605.

The components of the cryogenic tank control system 10 are attached to the cryogenic tank 1000 by four connection ports welded to the cryogenic tank 1000. The injection valve 600 is attached to a first connection port that is in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000 b. The manual valve module 200 is attached to both the second connection port and the third connection port, which are in fluid communication with the liquid containing portion 1000 a. The solenoid valve module 300 and the pressure relief and venting module 400 are attached to a t-fitting or other suitable branching assembly attached to a fourth connection port that is in fluid communication with the gas containing portion 1000 b.

In operation, pressure relief and venting module 100 is configured to protect cryogenic tank 1000 from overpressure and enable an operator to manually vent gas from gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000.

More specifically, as long as PGAS < P1, pressure relief valve 110 prevents gas from escaping from gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 to the atmosphere through pressure relief valve 110. Once PGAS exceeds P1, the gas forces relief valve 110 to move from its closed configuration to its open configuration. This fluidly connects the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000 to the atmosphere and enables gas to escape to the atmosphere through the pressure relief valve 110 to reduce the pressure in the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000.

Prior to rupture, pressure relief device 120 prevents gas from escaping from gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 to atmosphere through pressure relief device 120 as long as PGAS < P2, where P2> P1. Once PGAS exceeds P2, the gas forces the pressure relief device 120 to rupture or permanently deform to form an outlet. This fluidly connects the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 to the atmosphere and enables gas to escape to the atmosphere through pressure relief device 120 to reduce the pressure in the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000.

When in the closed configuration, the vent valve 130 prevents gas from traveling from the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000 to the vent receptacle 140. When in the open configuration, vent valve 130 enables gas to travel from gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 to vent vessel 140.

The vent receptacle 140 enables gas to flow through the vent receptacle to atmosphere or into an external device connected to the vent receptacle. For example, when liquid is added to the cryogenic tank 1000, the venting container may be fluidly connected to a gas station to enable gas to be discharged from the gas containing portion 1000b inside the cryogenic tank 1000.

In operation, the assembly of manual valve module 200 and solenoid valve module 300 forms a pressure build circuit that enables an operator to increase the pressure PGAS of gas in the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 and introduce the gas into the gas containing portion 1000b of cryogenic tank 1000 by vaporizing some of the liquid in the liquid containing portion 1000a of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 into the gas through accumulation coil 400. The components of manual valve module 200 enable an operator to dispense liquid from liquid containing portion 1000a of cryogenic tank 1000 to an external device. The components of manual valve module 200 and the components of solenoid valve module 300 form an economizer circuit that enables an operator to distribute gas from within gas containing portion 1000b of cryogenic tank 1000 to external devices.

As shown in fig. 2, when PGAS < P3 and the operator desires to increase the pressure of the gas in the gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of the cryogenic tank 1000, the operator moves the accumulation valve 210 from its closed configuration to its open configuration. This enables liquid to flow from the liquid containing portion 1000a of the cryogenic tank 1000 to the accumulation coil 400. The liquid vaporizes as it moves through the accumulation coil 400 and the gas exits the accumulation coil 400 and travels to the accumulation solenoid valve inlet 305a of the solenoid valve module body 305. Since PGAS < P3, the controller 510 energizes the coil of the accumulation solenoid valve 310 such that the accumulation solenoid valve 310 is in its open configuration. Additionally, since PGAS < P3, this means PGAS < P4, and the controller 510 does not energize the coil of the economizer solenoid valve 320, and the economizer solenoid valve 320 is in its closed configuration. Thus, gas travels from the accumulation solenoid valve inlet 305a through the solenoid valve module 300 to the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305 c. From there, the gas travels into the gas containing portion 1000b inside the cryogenic tank 1000.

When an operator desires liquid or gas from cryogenic tank 1000 to be dispensed into a user device, the operator moves service valve 210 from its closed configuration to its open configuration.

As shown in fig. 3, if PGAS > P4 when service valve 210 is in an open configuration, service valve 210 dispenses gas from gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000. Specifically, if PGAS < P4, the controller 510 energizes the coil of the economizer solenoid valve 320 such that the economizer solenoid valve 320 is in its open configuration. Additionally, since PGAS > P4, this means PGAS > P3, and the controller 510 does not energize the coils of the accumulation solenoid valve 310, and the accumulation solenoid valve 310 is in its closed configuration. Since service valve 210 is in its open configuration, gas flows from gas containing portion 1000b of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 and flows through solenoid valve module 300 from the combined accumulation solenoid valve outlet and economizer solenoid valve inlet 305c to economizer solenoid valve outlet 305 b. From there, the gas travels through the service valve 230 and the relief valve 240 into the user device. The check valve 220 prevents gas from flowing back into the low temperature tank 1000.

As shown in fig. 4, if PGAS < P4 when service valve 210 is in the open configuration, service valve 210 dispenses liquid from liquid containing portion 1000a of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000. Specifically, because PGAS < P4, the controller 510 does not energize the coil of the economizer solenoid valve 320 and the economizer solenoid valve 320 is in its closed configuration. Once service valve 210 is in its open configuration, liquid flows from the liquid containing portion 1000a of the interior of cryogenic tank 1000 through check valve 220 into service valve 230. The liquid travels through the service valve 230 and the relief valve 240 and into the user device.

The cryogenic tank control system 10 contains or is connectable to a power source, such as a battery, to power the controller 510 and the solenoid valves 310 and 320, but the power source is not shown.

The cryogenic tank control system reduces the number of welds of the tank from fourteen (as seen in various known cryogenic tank control systems) to four while reducing the amount of assembly that must be assembled. This can simplify and speed up installation since the required welding points are significantly reduced. Since there are fewer welding points, the number of possible failure points is reduced, which may improve reliability and reduce down time. In addition, by combining the various components into a module, the cryogenic tank control system saves installation space and reduces the amount of connectors required to connect each individual component. The system also simplifies maintenance by enabling modules to be replaced without cutting pipes or connectors welded to the cryogenic tank.

Fig. 5 shows a manually controlled shut-off valve 2000 that includes a valve body 2100, a lower valve stem 2200, an upper valve stem 2300, a biasing member 2400, a valve seat sheet 2500, a gland nut 2600, a first sealing member 2700, and a second sealing member 2800. As described below, shut valve 2000 is movable between a closed configuration and an open configuration.

As best shown in fig. 6A and 6B, the valve body 2100 includes a flow portion 2110 and a mounting portion 2120 transverse to the flow portion 2110. The mounting portion 2120 has a longitudinal axis LAV. Flow portion 2110 includes a plurality of surfaces (not labeled) that together define a flow path between inlet 2110a and outlet 2110 b. A valve seat 2112 is positioned in the flow path between inlet 2110a and outlet 2110 b. The mounting portion 2120 includes a threaded cylindrical compression nut engagement surface 2122 and a threaded cylindrical lower stem engagement surface 2124.

The threaded cylindrical compression nut engagement surface 2122 (in part) defines a compression nut receiving cavity and the threaded cylindrical lower stem engagement surface 2124 (in part) defines a lower stem receiving cavity.

In this embodiment, the valve body 2100 is made of brass (e.g., UNS C37700), but it could also be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in fig. 7A and 7B, the compression nut 2600 includes an upper annular surface 2602, a first inner cylindrical surface 2604, a first annular seal cavity defining surface 2606, a cylindrical seal cavity defining surface 2608, a second annular seal cavity defining surface 2610, a second inner cylindrical surface 2612, a first inner annular surface 2614, a third inner cylindrical surface 2616, a tapered first seal member engagement surface 2618, a first annular first seal member engagement surface 2620, a second annular first seal member engagement surface 2622, a cylindrical first seal member engagement surface 2624, a second inner annular surface 2626, a tapered inner surface 2628, a fourth inner cylindrical surface 2630, an annular valve body engagement surface 2632, a cylindrical threaded valve body engagement surface 2634, and an outer cylindrical surface 2636.

The first inner cylindrical surface 2604 extends longitudinally between the upper annular surface 2602 and the first annular seal cavity defining surface 2606. A first annular seal cavity defining surface 2606 extends laterally between the first inner cylindrical surface 2604 and the cylindrical seal cavity defining surface 2608. The cylindrical seal cavity defining surface 2608 extends longitudinally between the first annular seal cavity defining surface 2606 and the second annular seal cavity defining surface 2610. A second annular seal cavity defining surface 2610 extends laterally between the cylindrical seal cavity defining surface 2608 and the second inner cylindrical surface 2612. A second inner cylindrical surface 2612 extends longitudinally between the second annular seal cavity defining surface 2610 and the first inner annular surface 2614. The first inner annular surface 2614 extends laterally between the second inner cylindrical surface 2612 and the third inner cylindrical surface 2616. A third inner cylindrical surface 2616 extends longitudinally between the first inner annular surface 2614 and the tapered first seal member engagement surface 2618. The tapered first seal member engagement surface 2618 extends angularly between the third inner cylindrical surface 2616 and the first annular first seal member engagement surface 2620. The first annular first seal member engagement surface 2620 extends laterally between the tapered first seal member engagement surface 2618 and the second annular first seal member engagement surface 2622. The second annular first seal member engagement surface 2622 extends transversely between the first annular first seal member engagement surface 2620 and the cylindrical first seal member engagement surface 2624. A cylindrical first seal member engagement surface 2624 extends longitudinally between the second annular first seal member engagement surface 2622 and the second inner annular surface 2626. A second inner annular surface 2626 extends laterally between the cylindrical first seal member engagement surface 2624 and the tapered inner surface 2628. Tapered inner surface 2628 extends angularly between second inner annular surface 2626 and fourth inner cylindrical surface 2630. A fourth inner cylindrical surface 2630 extends longitudinally between tapered inner surface 2628 and annular valve body engagement surface 2632. Annular valve body engagement surface 2632 extends laterally between fourth inner cylindrical surface 2630 and threaded cylindrical valve body engagement surface 2634. Threaded cylindrical valve body engagement surface 2634 extends longitudinally between annular valve body engagement surface 2632 and outer cylindrical surface 2636. An outer cylindrical surface 2636 extends longitudinally between threaded cylindrical valve body engagement surface 2634 and upper annular surface 2602.

The seal cavity defining surfaces 2606, 2608, and 2610 define an annular seal member receiving cavity (described below) sized and shaped to partially receive the second seal member 2800.

In this embodiment, the compression nut 2600 is made of brass (e.g., UNS C36000), but it could also be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in fig. 8A and 8B, the upper valve stem 2300 includes a tool engaging portion 2310, a cylindrical portion 2320, an annular portion 2330, and a lower valve stem engaging portion 2340. The cylindrical portion 2320 is located between the tool engagement portion 2310 and the annular portion 2330, and the annular portion 2330 is located between the cylindrical portion 2320 and the lower stem engagement portion 2340.

The tool engagement portion 2310 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced flats 2312. Similarly, the lower stem engagement portion 2340 includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced flats 2342. The surfaces 2314a, 2314b and 2314c define bores that enable an operator to attach a handwheel to the upper valve stem 2300. The surfaces 2344 and 2346 define a biasing member receiving aperture sized to receive a portion of the biasing member 2400.

In this embodiment, the upper valve stem 2300 is made of brass (e.g., UNS C36000), but it could be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in fig. 9A and 9B, the lower stem 2200 includes a threaded portion 2210 and a sealing portion 2220. The threaded portion includes a threaded cylindrical valve body engagement surface 2212. The sealing portion includes three valve seat sheet defining surfaces 2222, 2224 and 2226 (as described below) that define a valve seat sheet receiving cavity sized and shaped to receive the valve seat sheet 2500. The upper valve stem engagement surface 2230 defines an upper valve stem receiving bore (described below) sized and shaped to receive the upper valve stem 2300.

In this embodiment, the lower valve stem 2200 is made of brass (e.g., UNS C36000), but it could also be made of any suitable material.

Fig. 5 shows the assembled shut-off valve 2000 in an open configuration. The threaded cylindrical valve body engagement surface 2212 of the lower valve stem 2200 is threadedly engaged with the threaded cylindrical lower valve stem engagement surface 2124 of the valve body 2100. The lower stem engagement portion 2340 of the upper stem 2300 is received in an upper stem receiving bore defined by the upper stem engagement surface 2230 of the lower stem 2200. The biasing member 2400, here a compression spring, is partially disposed in a biasing member receiving bore defined by the upper valve stem 2300 such that the biasing member 2400 extends between the upper valve stem 2300 and the lower valve stem 2200. The elastomeric valve seat sheet 2500 is disposed within a valve seat sheet receiving cavity defined in the lower valve stem 2200.

The cylindrical threaded valve body engagement surface 2634 of the compression nut 2600 is in threaded engagement with the threaded cylindrical compression nut engagement surface 2122 of the valve body 2100. The first seal member 2700 is made of an elastomeric material and is seated around the cylindrical portion 2320 of the upper valve stem 2300. The biasing member 2400 forces the upper valve stem 2300 upward such that the first sealing member 2700 sealingly engages the first sealing member engagement surfaces 2618, 2620, 2622, and 2624. The second seal member 2800 is disposed in a second seal member channel defined by the gland nut 2600 and sealingly engages the upper valve stem 2300.

As described above, shut valve 2000 is movable between an open configuration (fig. 5) and a closed configuration (not shown). When in the closed configuration, the valve seat insert 2500 sealingly engages the valve seat 2112 of the valve body 2100 and prevents fluid from flowing from the inlet 2110a to the outlet 2110 b. When in the open configuration, the valve seat insert 2500 is disengaged from the valve seat 2112 and allows fluid to flow from the inlet 2110a to the outlet 2110 b.

To move the shut-off valve 2000 between the closed configuration and the open configuration, an operator rotates the upper valve stem 2300 relative to the gland nut 2600 and the valve body 2100. The operator may do this by, for example, engaging the flats 2312 of the tool engagement portion 2310 of the upper valve stem 2300 with a tool, such as a wrench, and rotating the tool. In another example, an operator may mount a handwheel to the tool engaging portion 2310 of the upper valve stem 2300.

More specifically, when the shut-off valve 2000 is in the open configuration, rotating the upper valve stem 2300 in a first direction moves the shut-off valve 2000 to the closed configuration. Specifically, rotating the upper valve stem 2300 in a first direction rotates the upper valve stem 2300 and the lower valve stem 2200 matingly engaged to the upper valve stem 2300 by the upper valve stem engagement surface 2230 relative to the valve body 2100, the gland nut 2600, the first seal member 2700, and the second seal member 2800. This causes the lower stem 2200 to begin to disengage from the threaded cylindrical lower stem engagement surface 2124 of the valve body 2100 and move longitudinally away from the upper stem 2300. The biasing member 2400 applies a biasing force to the upper valve stem 2300 to ensure that it remains in sealing engagement with the gland nut 2600 via the first sealing member 2700. Once the seat sheet 2500 sealingly engages the valve seat 2112 of the valve body 2100, the operator stops rotating the upper valve stem 2300, at which time the shut-off valve 2000 is in a closed configuration.

Conversely, when the shut-off valve 2000 is in the closed configuration, rotating the upper valve stem 2300 in a second direction different from the first direction moves the shut-off valve 2000 to the open configuration. Specifically, rotating the upper valve stem 2300 in a second direction rotates the upper valve stem 2300 and the lower valve stem 2200 matingly engaged to the upper valve stem 2300 by the upper valve stem engagement surface 2230 relative to the valve body 2100, the gland nut 2600, the first seal member 2700, and the second seal member 2800. This causes the lower stem 2200 to begin to screw back onto the threaded cylindrical lower stem engagement surface 2124 of the valve body 2100 and move longitudinally toward the upper stem 2300. The biasing member 2400 applies a biasing force to the upper valve stem 2300 to ensure that it remains in sealing engagement with the gland nut 2600 via the first sealing member 2700. Once the lower valve stem 2200 contacts the upper valve stem 2300, the operator stops rotating the upper valve stem 2300, at which point the seat sheet 2500 disengages from the valve seat and the shut-off valve 2000 is in the closed configuration.

Positioning the biasing member between the upper stem and the lower stem enables the biasing member to ensure an adequate seal. Specifically, the biasing force imparted to the upper valve stem ensures that the first sealing member sealingly engages the compression nut. The biasing force imparted to the lower stem helps the seat insert sealingly engage the valve seat, particularly at cryogenic temperatures. In particular, at cryogenic temperatures, the valve seat insert may shrink, which may result in leakage at the valve seat insert/seat interface when the shut-off valve is in the closed configuration. The biasing force imparted to the lower stem compensates for the contraction to ensure a proper seal even at cryogenic temperatures.

Fig. 10 shows an electrically controlled solenoid valve 3000 that can be used to control the flow of fluid through the valve body 4000. The solenoid valve 3000 includes a coil assembly 3100, a cartridge 3200, a nut 3300, a plunger 3400, a valve seat sheet retainer 3500, a retainer 3600, a valve seat sheet 3700, a sealing member 3800, and a biasing member 3900. The solenoid valve 3000 has a longitudinal axis LAS.

As best shown in fig. 11, the coil assembly 3100 includes a coil housing 3100a and electrical coils (not shown) located within the coil housing 3100 a.

The coil housing 3100a includes an outer surface 3102, an inner cylindrical surface 3104, a first upper surface 3106, a second upper surface 3108, a third upper surface 3110, a first lower surface 3112, a second lower surface 3114 and a third lower surface 3116.

The outer surface 3102 extends longitudinally between the first upper surface 3106 and the first lower surface 3112. The first upper surface 3106 extends laterally between the outer surface 3102 and the second upper surface 3108. The second upper surface 3108 extends longitudinally between the first upper surface 3106 and the third upper surface 3110. A third upper surface 3110 extends laterally between the second upper surface 3108 and the inner cylindrical surface 3104. Inner cylindrical surface 3104 extends longitudinally between third upper surface 3110 and third lower surface 3116. A third lower surface 3116 extends laterally between the inner cylindrical surface 3104 and the second lower surface 3114. Second lower surface 3114 extends longitudinally between third lower surface 3116 and first lower surface 3112. First lower surface 3112 extends laterally between second lower surface 3114 and outer surface 3102.

The inner cylindrical surface 3104 defines a cartridge receiving bore sized and shaped to receive a portion of the cartridge 3200.

In this embodiment, the coil housing 3100a is made of plastic, but it could also be made of any suitable material. The electrical coil is made of copper wire (or any other suitable material) and is electrically connectable to a power source such that the power source can cause an electrical current to flow through the coil, thereby causing the coil to generate an electromagnetic force. In certain embodiments, the electrical coil is a 10 watt to 12 watt, 12 volt or 24 volt DC coil.

As best shown in fig. 12, the barrel 3200 includes an outer circular surface 3201, a first outer cylindrical surface 3202, a second outer cylindrical surface 3204, a third outer cylindrical surface 3206, a first annular coil assembly engagement surface 3208, a cylindrical coil assembly engagement surface 3210, a second annular coil assembly engagement surface 3212, a fourth outer cylindrical surface 3214, a first outer annular surface 3216, a fifth outer cylindrical surface 3218, an annular valve body sealing surface 3220, a sixth outer cylindrical surface 3222, which seats the valve body engagement thread 3222a, a second outer annular surface 3224, a cylindrical valve seat holder engagement surface 3226, a first inner annular surface 3228, an inner cylindrical surface 3230, an annular retainer engagement surface 3232, a cylindrical plunger rod engagement surface 3234, and a circular plunger rod engagement surface 3236.

A first outer cylindrical surface 3202 extends longitudinally between the outer circular surface 3201 and a second outer cylindrical surface 3204. The second exterior cylindrical surface 3204 extends longitudinally between (and is radially recessed relative to) the first exterior cylindrical surface 3202 and the third exterior cylindrical surface 3206. A third outer cylindrical surface 3206 extends longitudinally between the second outer cylindrical surface 3204 and the first annular coil assembly engagement surface 3208. The first annular coil assembly engagement surface 3208 extends laterally between the third outer cylindrical surface 3206 and the cylindrical coil assembly engagement surface 3210. Cylindrical coil assembly engagement surface 3210 extends longitudinally between first and second annular coil assembly engagement surfaces 3208 and 3212. A second annular coil assembly engagement surface 3212 extends laterally between the cylindrical coil assembly engagement surface 3210 and a fourth outer cylindrical surface 3214. A fourth outer cylindrical surface 3214 extends longitudinally between the second annular coil assembly engagement surface 3212 and the first outer annular surface 3216. A first outer annular surface 3216 extends laterally between the fourth and fifth outer cylindrical surfaces 3214, 3218. A fifth outer cylindrical surface 3218 extends longitudinally between the first outer annular surface 3216 and the annular valve body sealing surface 3220. An annular valve body sealing surface 3220 extends laterally between the fifth outer cylindrical surface 3218 and the sixth outer cylindrical surface 3222. A sixth outer cylindrical surface 3222 extends longitudinally between the annular valve body sealing surface 3220 and the second outer annular surface 3224. A second outer annular surface 3224 extends laterally between a sixth outer cylindrical surface 3222 and a cylindrical valve seat retainer engagement surface 3226. A cylindrical valve seat sheet retainer engagement surface 3226 extends longitudinally between a second outer annular surface 3224 and a first inner annular surface 3228. A first inner annular surface 3228 extends laterally between the cylindrical valve seat retainer engagement surface 3226 and the inner cylindrical surface 3230. An inner cylindrical surface 3230 extends longitudinally between the first inner annular surface 3228 and the annular retainer engagement surface 3232. An annular retainer engagement surface 3232 extends laterally between the inner cylindrical surface 3230 and the cylindrical plunger rod engagement surface 3234. A cylindrical plunger rod engagement surface 3234 extends longitudinally between the annular retainer engagement surface 3232 and the annular plunger rod engagement surface 3236.

The cylindrical valve seat sheet retainer engaging surface 3226, the first inner annular surface 3228, the inner cylindrical surface 3230, and the annular retainer engaging surface 3232 form a plunger, retainer, and valve seat sheet retainer receiving cavity sized and shaped to receive at least a portion of the plunger stem and the head portion of the plunger 3400, the retainer 3600, and at least a portion of the valve seat sheet retainer 3500. The cylindrical plunger rod engagement surface 3234 and the circular plunger rod engagement surface 3236 form a rod receiving bore sized and shaped to receive a portion of the rod of the plunger 3400.

In this embodiment, the cartridge 3200 is made of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., UNS S430000).

As best shown in fig. 13, the nut 3300 includes an outer circular surface 3302, an outer hexagonal surface 3304, an upper annular surface 3306, an outer cylindrical surface 3308, a ring coil assembly housing engagement surface 3310, a first seal cavity defining surface 3312, a second seal cavity defining surface 3314, a third seal cavity defining surface 3316, a lower annular surface 3318, a threaded cylindrical inner surface 3320, and an inner circular surface 3322.

An outer hexagonal surface 3304 extends longitudinally between the outer circular surface 3302 and the upper annular surface 3306. An upper annular surface 3306 extends laterally between the outer hexagonal surface 3304 and the outer cylindrical surface 3308. The outer cylindrical surface 3308 extends longitudinally between the upper annular surface 3306 and the annular coil assembly housing engagement surface 3310. A ring coil assembly housing engagement surface 3310 extends laterally between the outer cylindrical surface 3308 and the first seal cavity defining surface 3312. The first seal cavity defining surface 3312 extends longitudinally between the annular coil assembly housing engagement surface 3310 and the second seal cavity defining surface 3314. The second seal cavity defining surface 3314 extends laterally between the first seal cavity defining surface 3312 and the third seal cavity defining surface 3316. The third seal cavity defining surface 3316 extends longitudinally between the second seal cavity defining surface 3314 and the lower annular surface 3318. A lower annular surface 3318 extends transversely between the third seal cavity defining surface 3316 and the threaded cylindrical inner surface 3320. A threaded cylindrical inner surface 3320 extends longitudinally between the lower annular surface 3318 and the inner circular surface 3322.

The seal cavity defining surfaces 3312, 3314, 3316 define an annular seal member receiving cavity (described below) sized and shaped to partially receive the seal member 3800. The threaded cylindrical inner surface 3320 and the inner circular surface 3322 define a cartridge receiving bore (described below) sized and shaped to receive and threadingly engage a portion of the cartridge 3200.

In this embodiment, the nut 3300 is made of brass (e.g., TINS C36000), but it could also be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in fig. 14, the plunger 3400 includes a rod 3410 and a head 3420 at one end of the rod 3410. The other end 3412 of the rod 3410 is a free end. The cylindrical surface 3414a and the rounded surface 3414b define a biasing member receiving bore extending longitudinally inward from the free end 3412. The biasing member receiving aperture is sized and shaped to receive a portion of biasing member 3900. The first length L1 of the rod 3410 extending from the free end 3412 toward the head 3420 has a first outer diameter Dia1, which in this embodiment is 8 millimeters, but may be any suitable value. A second length L2 of the rod 3410 extending from the head 3420 toward the free end 3412 has a second outer diameter Dia2 that is less than Dia 1. In this embodiment, Dia2 is 7.6 millimeters, but may be any suitable value. The head portion 3420 includes a circular valve seat sheet retainer contact surface 3422 and an annular retainer contact surface 3424.

In this embodiment, the plunger 3400 is made of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., UNS S430000).

As best shown in fig. 15, valve seat sheet retainer 3500 includes an outer surface 3502 having a cylindrical barrel engagement portion and a conical lower portion, a first outer annular surface 3504, a first cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3506, an annular retainer seating surface 3508, a second cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3510, an annular plunger contact surface 3512, a cylindrical inner surface 3514, an annular valve seat sheet engagement surface 3516, a cylindrical valve seat sheet engagement surface 3518, and a second annular outer surface 3520.

The outer surface 3502 extends longitudinally between the first outer annular surface 3504 and the second annular outer surface 3520. A first outer annular surface 3504 extends laterally between the outer surface 3502 and the first cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3506. A first cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3506 extends longitudinally between the first outer annular surface 3504 and the annular retainer seating surface 3508. The annular retainer seating surface 3508 extends laterally between the first cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3506 and the second cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3510. A second cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3510 extends longitudinally between the annular retainer seating surface 3508 and the annular plunger contact surface 3512. An annular plunger contact surface 3512 extends laterally between the second cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3510 and the cylindrical inner surface 3514. A cylindrical inner surface 3514 extends longitudinally between the annular plunger contact surface 3512 and the annular valve seat sheet engagement surface 3516. An annular valve seat sheet engagement surface 3516 extends laterally between the cylindrical inner surface 3514 and the cylindrical valve seat sheet engagement surface 3518. A cylindrical valve seat sheet engagement surface 3518 extends longitudinally between the annular valve seat sheet engagement surface 3516 and a second annular outer surface 3520. A second annular outer surface 3520 extends transversely between the cylindrical valve seat sheet engaging surface 3518 and the outer surface 3502.

The first cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3506, the annular retainer seating surface 3508, the second cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3510, and the annular plunger contact surface 3512 form a retainer and plunger receiving cavity sized and shaped to receive the retainer 3600 and a portion of the head of the plunger 3400 and the stem of the plunger. The annular valve seat sheet engagement surface 3516, the cylindrical valve seat sheet engagement surface 3518, and the second annular outer surface 3520 define a valve seat sheet receiving bore sized and shaped to receive the valve seat sheet 3700.

In this embodiment, valve seat sheet retainer 3500 is made of stainless steel (e.g., AISI 304), but in other embodiments it may be made of any suitable material.

As best shown in fig. 16, retainer 3600 includes a first annular portion 3610 and a second annular portion 3630. The outer diameter of the first annular portion is smaller than the outer diameter of the second annular portion such that a portion of the second annular portion 3630 forms an annular shoulder 3620. The cylindrical surface 3640 defines a plunger receiving bore sized and shaped to receive a portion of the stem of the plunger 3400.

In this embodiment, retainer 3600 is made of a ferromagnetic material (e.g., USN S430000).

As best shown in fig. 17, the valve seat sheet 3700 includes a first cylindrical portion 3710 connected to a second cylindrical portion 3720. The diameter of the first cylindrical portion 3710 is greater than the diameter of the second cylindrical portion 3720.

In this embodiment, the valve seat sheet 3700 is made of an elastomeric material, such as Polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), or any other suitable material.

Fig. 10 and 18A-18D illustrate a solenoid valve assembly including a solenoid valve 3000 assembled and threadably attached to a valve body 4000. More specifically, the solenoid valve 3000 is threadably attached to the valve body 4000 by the valve body engagement threads 3222a of the cartridge 3200. A valve body sealing member 5000 (e.g., an O-ring) is compressed between the valve body 4000 and an annular valve body sealing surface 3220 of the cartridge 3200 to prevent fluid leakage through this interface between the valve body 4000 and the cartridge 3200.

Coil assembly 3100 is mounted to cartridge 3200. Specifically, a portion of the cartridge 3200 is received in a cartridge receiving hole defined by the coil housing 3100 a. The threaded cylindrical inner surface 3320 of the nut 3300 is threadedly engaged to the nut engagement threads 3202a of the cartridge 3200 to compress the sealing member 3800 against the first upper surface 3106 of the coil housing 3100 a. The nut 3300 compresses the coil housing 3100a against the first and second outer annular surfaces 3208, 3212 of the cartridge 3200 to secure the coil assembly 3100 in place relative to the cartridge 3200.

A portion of stem 3410 of plunger 3400 is slidably received in a plunger receiving bore defined by barrel 3200. Biasing member 3900, here a compression spring, is partially disposed in a biasing member receiving bore defined by plunger 3400 such that biasing member 3900 extends between circular surface 3414b of plunger 3400 and circular plunger rod engagement surface 3236 of barrel 3200.

Valve seat sheet retainer 3500 is slidingly received in the plunger, retainer and valve seat sheet retainer receiving cavity defined by cartridge 3200 such that head portion 3420 of plunger 3400 and a portion of stem 3410 of the plunger are received in the retainer and plunger receiving cavity defined by valve seat sheet retainer 3500.

Retainer 3600 is received in the retainer and plunger receiving cavity defined by valve seat sheet retainer 3500 such that stem 3410 of plunger 3400 extends through the plunger receiving bore defined by retainer 3600 and annular shoulder 3620 contacts annular retainer seating surface 3508 of valve seat sheet retainer 3500. The retainer 3600 is held in place by an interference fit between the second annular portion 3630 of the retainer 3600 and the first cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3506 of the valve seat sheet retainer and an interference fit between the first annular portion 3610 of the retainer 3600 and the second cylindrical retainer engagement surface 3510 of the valve seat sheet retainer 3500. In other embodiments, the retainer is held in place by crimping the upper end of the valve seat sheet retainer.

Valve seat sheet 3700 is received in a valve seat sheet receiving bore defined by valve seat sheet retainer 3500. The valve seat sheet 3700 is held in place by an interference fit between the perimeter of the first cylindrical portion 3710 of the valve seat sheet 3700 and the cylindrical valve seat sheet engagement surface 3518 of the valve seat sheet retainer 3500. In other embodiments, the valve seat sheet is held in place by crimping the lower end of the valve seat sheet retainer.

As best shown in fig. 18A-18D and described below, the solenoid valve 3000 is movable from a closed configuration (fig. 10 and 18A) to a first intermediate configuration (fig. 18B), from a first intermediate position to a second intermediate configuration (fig. 18C), and from the second intermediate configuration to an open configuration (fig. 18D). More specifically, the solenoid valve 3000 is biased to its closed configuration (i.e., is a normally closed valve) and is configured to move to its open configuration through a two-step process (i.e., through a first intermediate configuration and a second intermediate configuration) when its coil is energized. When in the closed configuration, the solenoid valve 3000 prevents fluid from flowing from the inlet of the valve body 4000 (defined by surface 4100) to the outlet of the valve body 4000 (defined by surface 4200).

Fig. 18A shows the solenoid valve 3000 in a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the biasing member 3900 biases the plunger 3400 away from the coil assembly 3100. The circular valve seat retainer contact surface 3422 of the head portion 3420 of the plunger 3400 contacts the annular plunger contact surface 3512 of the valve seat retainer 3500 and pushes the valve seat retainer 3500 away from the coil assembly 3100. This causes the second cylindrical portion 3720 of the valve seat sheet 3700 to sealingly engage the valve seat 4300 of the valve body 4000, thereby preventing fluid from flowing from the inlet of the valve body 4000 to the outlet of the valve body 4000. Thus, when the solenoid valve 3000 is in the closed configuration, the plunger 3400 is in a first plunger position, the valve seat sheet retainer 3500 is in a first valve seat sheet retainer position, the retainer 3600 is in a first retainer position, and the valve seat sheet 3700 is in a first valve seat sheet position. Additionally, fluid introduced at the inlet of the valve body 4000 fills certain gaps within the solenoid valve 3000 and pressurizes the solenoid valve 3000 to a closed configuration.

When solenoid valve 3000 is in the closed configuration, annular retainer contact surface 3424 is a distance D1 from the underside of first annular portion 3610 of retainer 3600, which in this embodiment is 3.5 millimeters but may be any suitable value. Additionally, the upper surface of the second annular portion 3630 of the retainer 3600 is a distance D2 from the annular retainer engagement surface 3232 of the cartridge 3200, which in this embodiment is 2.9 millimeters but may be any suitable value. Further, the end 3412 of the stem 3410 of the plunger 3400 is a distance D3 from the annular plunger rod engagement surface 3236 of the barrel 3200, which in this embodiment is 4.0 millimeters but may be any suitable value.

When the coil is energized, the coil generates an electromagnetic force that attracts the ferromagnetic plunger 3400 toward the coil assembly 3100 and against the biasing force of the biasing member 3900 until the solenoid valve 3000 reaches the first intermediate configuration shown in fig. 18B. Specifically, plunger 3400 has been moved relative to coil assembly 3100, cartridge 3200, nut 3300, valve seat sheet retainer 3500, retainer 3600, valve seat sheet 3700, and valve body 4000 such that: (1) annular retainer contact surface 3424 contacts the underside of first annular portion 3610 of retainer 3600; and (2) end 3412 of rod 3410 of plunger 3400 is a distance D4 from annular plunger rod engagement surface 3236 of barrel 3200 of 0.5 millimeters (based on D1 and D3). Thus, when the solenoid valve 3000 is in a first intermediate configuration, the plunger 3400 is in a second plunger position (different than the first plunger position), the valve seat sheet retainer 3500 is in a first valve seat sheet retainer position, the retainer 3600 is in a first retainer position, and the valve seat sheet 3700 is in a first valve seat sheet position.

After the solenoid 3000 reaches the first intermediate configuration (i.e., after the plunger 3400 moves to the position described above), the magnetic force acting on the plunger 3400 increases (as it is closer to the coil) and causes further movement of the plunger 3400 and movement of the valve seat retainer 3500 until the solenoid 3000 reaches the second intermediate configuration shown in fig. 18C. Specifically, plunger 3400 has been moved relative to coil assembly 3100, cartridge 3200, nut 3300, and valve body 4000 such that end 3412 of rod 3410 of plunger 3400 contacts circular plunger rod engagement surface 3236 of cartridge 3200. In doing so, plunger 3400 pulls retainer 3600 and valve seat sheet retainer 3500 and valve seat sheet 3700 attached thereto such that: (1) the distance D5, which in this embodiment is 2.4 millimeters (based on D2 and D3), of the upper surface of the second annular portion 3630 of the retainer 3600 from the annular retainer engagement surface 3232 of the cartridge 3200; and (2) the valve seat sheet 3700 is disengaged from the valve seat 4300. Thus, when the solenoid valve 3000 is in the second intermediate configuration, the plunger 3400 is in a third plunger position (different from the first plunger position and the second plunger position), the valve seat sheet retainer 3500 is in a second valve seat sheet retainer position (different from the first valve seat sheet retainer position), the retainer 3600 is in a second retainer position (different from the first retainer position), and the valve seat sheet 3700 is in a second valve seat sheet position (different from the first valve seat sheet position).

Once the valve seat sheet 3700 is disengaged from the valve seat 4300, fluid at the inlet of the valve body 4000 stops pressurizing the solenoid valve to the closed configuration (or otherwise reduces the amount of pressurization) and begins flowing from the inlet of the valve body 4000 to the outlet of the valve body 4000. This, combined with the movement of the retainer 3600 toward the coil assembly 3100, causes the electromagnetic force to attract the ferromagnetic retainer 3600 toward the coil assembly 3100 until the solenoid valve reaches the open configuration shown in fig. 18D. Specifically, the retainer 3600 has been moved relative to the coil assembly 3100, the cartridge 3200, the nut 3300, the plunger 3400, and the valve body 4000 such that an upper surface of the second annular portion 3630 of the retainer 3600 contacts the annular retainer engagement surface 3232 of the cartridge 3200. In doing so, retainer 3600 pulls valve seat sheet 3500 and valve seat sheet 3700 attached thereto to further separate valve seat sheet 3700 from valve seat 4300. Thus, when the solenoid valve 3000 is in the closed configuration, the plunger 3400 is in a third plunger position, the valve seat sheet retainer 3500 is in a third valve seat sheet retainer position (different from the first and second valve seat sheet retainer positions), the retainer 3600 is in a third retainer position (different from the first and second retainer positions), and the valve seat sheet 3700 is in a third valve seat sheet position (different from the first and second valve seat sheet positions).

Based on the distances D1, D2, and D3, in this example embodiment the maximum stroke of the solenoid valve is 2.9 millimeters, but in other embodiments the stroke may be varied by varying the size and/or positioning of certain components.

The fact that the solenoid valve is a direct drive type solenoid valve makes its construction simpler and faster than the speed at which the drive type solenoid valve is guided to open. Further, the configuration that realizes the three-step opening realizes the use of a small-sized solenoid that consumes less energy than the direct drive type electromagnetic valve of the related art.

FIG. 19 illustrates another embodiment of a pressure relief and venting module 100 b. The pressure relief and exhaust module 100b includes a pressure relief and exhaust module housing 110b defining: (1) a first pressure relief device port 130 b; (2) a second pressure relief device port 140 b; (3) a pressure gauge port 150 b; (4) a tank inlet port 160 b; (5) a pressure establishing inlet port 170 b; and (6) a third pressure relief device port 180 b. A suitable vent valve 120b is integrated into the pressure relief and venting module housing 110 b.

In the illustrated example of fig. 19, a fluid inlet tube 161b is connected to and in fluid communication with the tank inlet port 160b and extends from the pressure relief and exhaust module housing 110 b. An example pressure relief valve 181b is connected to and in fluid communication with the third pressure relief port 180b, as shown in the example of FIG. 19. Additionally, in the example of fig. 19, an example pressure gauge 151b is connected to and in fluid communication with the pressure gauge port 150 b. It should be understood that various other fluid control devices (e.g., valves, plugs, meters, pipes, drains, etc.) may be connected to any of the ports 130b-180b depending on a given fluid control application (e.g., transporting liquefied natural gas, storing liquid nitrogen, storing compressed carbon dioxide, etc.). This pressure relief and venting module 100b may be used with any suitable cryogenic tank containing a pressure build-up circuit.

The first, second and third pressure relief ports 130b, 140b and 180b, the pressure gauge port 150b, the tank inlet port 160b and the vent valve 120b are in fluid communication with each other. The pressure establishing inlet port 170b is in fluid communication with the exhaust valve 120 b. Thus, the pressure establishing inlet port 170b is in selective fluid communication with the first, second and third pressure relief ports 130b, 140b and 180b, the pressure gauge port 150b and the tank inlet port 160b through the vent valve 120 b.

In a first example (e.g., for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) applications), a first pressure relief device (e.g., a pressure relief valve) may be threadably attached to the first pressure relief port 130b to fluidly connect the first pressure relief device with the interior of the pressure relief and venting module housing 110 b. A second pressure relief device (e.g., a rupture disk) may be threadably attached to the second pressure relief port 140b to fluidly connect the second pressure relief device with the interior of the pressure relief and exhaust module housing 110 b. Further, the example pressure gauge 151b may be threadably attached to the pressure gauge port 150b to fluidly connect the pressure gauge 151b with the interior of the pressure relief and exhaust module housing 110 b. Additionally, a pressure establishing inlet port 170b may be used to fluidly connect the interior of the pressure relief and exhaust module housing 110b with a pressure establishing circuit. Likewise, tank inlet port 160b may be fluidly connected to the gas containing portion of the interior of the cryogenic tank by fluid inlet tube 161 b.

In operation, in a first example, when the pressure build circuit is deactivated and the vent valve 120b is closed, fluid inlet tube 161b receives pressurized gas from the gas containing portion of the interior of the cryogenic tank, and the pressure relief and venting module housing 110b routes the gas to the ports described above. Opening the vent valve 120b will allow gas to enter the pressure build inlet port 170b, but a check valve (not shown) will prevent gas from entering the pressure build circuit. When the pressure build circuit is activated, gas enters the pressure build inlet port 170b and travels through the fluid inlet tube 161b into the gas containing portion of the cryogenic tank to increase the pressure of the gas contained therein.

In a second example (e.g., in a standard fluid control application, liquid nitrogen application, etc.), a pressure build-up circuit may be attached to the third pressure relief port 180b to fluidly connect the pressure build-up circuit with the interior of the pressure relief and venting module housing 110 b. Thus, the third pressure relief port 180b acts as a pressure establishing inlet. Further, the first and second pressure relief ports 130b and 140b, the pressure gauge port 150b, and the tank inlet port 160b may be fluidly connected to: first and second pressure relief devices, a pressure gauge 151b, and a gas containing portion inside the cryogenic tank. Additionally, the pressure establishing inlet port 170b may be fluidly connected to the atmosphere. Thus, the vent valve 120b may vent fluid from any of the ports 130b, 140b, 150b, 160b, 180b to the atmosphere through the pressure establishing inlet port 170 b.

In operation, in the second example, when the pressure build-up circuit is deactivated and the vent valve 120b is closed, fluid inlet tube 161b receives pressurized gas from the gas containing portion of the interior of the cryogenic tank, and the pressure relief and venting module housing 110b routes the gas to the ports described above. Gas will enter the third pressure relief port 180b, but a check valve (not shown) will prevent gas from entering the pressure build-up circuit. Opening the vent valve 120b vents the gas to atmosphere through the pressure build-up inlet port 170 b. When the pressure build-up circuit is activated by a valve, not shown, gas enters the third pressure relief port 180b and travels through fluid inlet tube 161b into the gas containing portion of the cryogenic tank to increase the pressure of the gas contained therein.

In either of these first and second examples, the operation of the first and second pressure relief devices and the pressure gauge 151b is not affected by whether the pressure build-up circuit is activated and whether the vent valve 120b is open. Thus, if the pressure of the gas is above the opening threshold of the first pressure relief device, said gas will escape through the first pressure relief device. Similarly, if the pressure of the gas is above the opening threshold of the second pressure relief device, said gas will escape through the second pressure relief device. It should be appreciated that in some instances, the pressure in the exhaust module housing 110b may exceed the opening threshold of the first and/or second pressure relief devices, whether the exhaust valve 120b is open or partially open. The pressure gauge 151b will indicate the pressure of the gas in the exhaust module housing 110b at the side of the exhaust valve 120 b.

It should be appreciated that the pressure relief and venting module 100b may be used in additional fluid control applications and/or configurations in addition to and/or as an alternative to the examples described above.

Fig. 20 and 21 are perspective views of a second embodiment of a solenoid valve assembly 6000 of the present disclosure. Fig. 22A is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly 6000 in a closed configuration. Fig. 22B is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly 6000 in an intermediate configuration. Fig. 22C is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly 6000 in a partially open configuration. Fig. 22D is a cross-sectional view of the solenoid valve assembly 6000 in a fully open configuration.

As shown in fig. 20-22D, the solenoid valve assembly 6000 includes a valve body 7000, a gasket 8000, a coil 3100, a barrel 6200, a pin 6250, a nut 6300, a plunger 6400, a retainer 6450, a poppet 6500, a plate 6600, a valve seat sheet 6700, a sealing member 3800, a first biasing member 3900, and a second biasing member 6950. The coil 3100, the sealing member 3800 and the first biasing member 3900 are described above in connection with fig. 10, 11 and 18A-D.

The valve body 7000 comprises a flow section 7110 and a mounting section 7120 transverse to the flow section 7110. The flow section 7110 includes a plurality of surfaces (not labeled) that together define a flow path between the inlet 7110a and the outlet 7110 b. As shown in fig. 22D, a valve seat 7112 is positioned within the flow passage between the inlet 7110a and the outlet 7110 b. The mounting portion 7120 includes a first cylindrical region 7121, a second cylindrical region 7122, a threaded region 7123, and a step 7124.

The inner diameter of the first cylindrical region 7121 is greater than the inner diameter of the second cylindrical region 7122. Thus, the first and second cylindrical regions 7121 and 7122 define a step 7124 in which the first and second cylindrical regions 7121 and 7122 contact one another.

The threaded region 7123 is internally threaded to thread the cartridge 6200.

In this embodiment, the valve body 7000 is made of brass (e.g. UNS C37700), but it could also be made of any suitable material.

The gasket 8000 is annular and seats within the valve body 7000. More specifically, the shim 8000 abuts the step 7124 and contacts the first cylindrical region 7121. During assembly of the solenoid valve 6000, the shim 8000 slides along the first cylindrical region 7121 before stopping against the step 7124. When the cylinder 6200 is secured in the valve body 7000, the gasket 8000 at least partially deforms (e.g., crushes, etc.) to form a seal between the valve body 7000 and the cylinder 6200. In this embodiment, the shim 8000 is metallic (e.g., copper, zinc, etc.), but it can also be made of any suitable material.

Coil 3100 is described above in connection with fig. 10 and 11. In addition, as shown in fig. 20 and 21, coil 3100 includes an electrical connector 3150. Coil 3100 is electrically connected to a power source via electrical connector 3150.

Barrel 6200 includes a body 6210, a first annular extension 6220, a flange 6230, a second annular extension 6240, and a third annular extension 6260.

The body 6210 is partially disposed in the coil 3100 and includes an externally threaded end 6212 and an inner surface 6214. The threaded end 6212 threadably engages the nut 6300. It should be appreciated that the coil 3100 may be slidably removable from the drum 6200. As shown in fig. 22A-D, the axial distance from the interior surface 6214 to the plunger 6400 is referred to as D13.

The first annular extension 6220 extends axially away from the body 6210 relative to the threaded end 6212. The first annular extension 6220 includes a thin-walled region 6222. The first annular extension 6220 defines an annular recess 6224 along a thin-walled region 6222. It should be appreciated that the magnetic attraction of the plunger 6400 decreases along the thin-walled region 6222. Accordingly, friction between the plunger 6400 and the barrel 6200 is reduced and magnetic attraction of the plunger 6400 is enhanced toward the body 6210. In addition, thin-walled region 6222 separates the magnetic field in barrel 6200 into two portions that respectively pull and push plunger 6400 to open and close valve assembly 6000. The first annular extension 6220 and the inner surface 6214 define a cylindrical void 6291.

A flange 6230 extends radially outwardly from the first annular extension 6220. The coil 3100 abuts the flange 6230. During assembly of the solenoid valve 6000, the coil 3100 slides along the main body 6210 and the first annular extension 6220, then stops against the step 6230. When the nut 6300 is threaded onto the threaded end 6212, the coil 3100 is captured on the barrel 6200 between the flange 6230 and the nut 6300. As shown in fig. 22A-D, the axial distance from the plate 6600 to the flange 6230 is referred to as D12.

The second annular extension 6240 extends axially away from the flange 6230. As shown in fig. 20 and 21, the flange 6230 and the second annular extension 6240 have non-circular outer perimeters (e.g., oval, square, hexagonal, polygonal) to allow torque to be applied to the flange 6230 and the second annular extension 6240 with a corresponding tool.

The third annular extension 6260 extends axially away from the second annular extension 6240. The outer perimeter of the second annular extension 6240 is greater than the outer perimeter of the third annular extension 6260. Thus, the second and third annular extensions 6240, 6260 define a step 6244. The third annular extension 6260 is cylindrical and partially externally threaded to have externally threaded regions 6262 and smooth regions 6264. The externally threaded region 6262 is located between the step 6244 and the smooth region 6264. When the container 6000 is assembled, the third annular extension 6260 is received by the mounting portion 7120 of the valve body 7000. More specifically, the smooth region 6264 is inserted into the first cylindrical region 7121 and the externally threaded region 6262 is threaded onto the threaded region 7123. When the barrel 6200 is secured in the valve body 7000 by the flange 6230 and/or the first annular extension 6240, the third annular extension 6260 crushes the gasket 8000 against the step 7124. The inner diameters of the first and second annular extensions 6240 and 6260 are the same. The first annular extension 6240, the second annular extension, and the flange 6230 define a cylindrical void 6292. The cylindrical voids 6291, 6292 communicate with each other and with the inlet 7110 a.

A plunger 6400 is rotatably and slidably disposed in the barrel 6200 in the cylindrical voids 6291, 6292. The plunger 6400 includes a cylindrical first body section 6410, a partially tapered section 6412, and a cylindrical second body section 6420. The outer diameter of the first body section 6410 is greater than the outer diameter of the second body section 6420. The first body section 6410 transitions into the second body section 6420 through a tapered section 6412. The first and second body sections 6410, 6420 and the tapered section 6412 define a passage 6440 through the plunger 6400. The channel 6440 communicates with the void 6291. The first body 6410 section has an internal step 6414. The second body section 6420 is internally threaded. In some examples, the internal threads of the second body section 6420 extend partially into the tapered section 6412.

A retainer 6450 is disposed in the barrel 6200 and is engaged with the plunger 6400. It should be understood that the retainer 6450 may also be referred to as a spring support screw. In the example of fig. 22A-D, the plunger 6400 and the retainer 6450 are threadedly engaged. It should be appreciated that the retainer 6450 and the plunger 6400 may engage each other in any manner (e.g., press-fit, crimp, glue, weld, rivet, etc.). The retainer 6450 includes a body 6460, a flange 6470, and an annular extension 6480. The flange 6470 extends radially away from the body 6460 to define a step 6472. The annular extension 6480 extends axially away from the body 6460 relative to the flange 6470. The body 6460 and the annular extension 6480 define a passage 6490 through the retainer 6450. In the example of fig. 22A-D, the annular extension 6480 is internally threaded. When the container 6000 is assembled, the externally threaded annular extension 6480 is threaded into the internally threaded second body section 6420 of the plunger 6400. Thus, the passage 6490 communicates with the passage 6440.

The pin 6250 is rotatably and slidably disposed in the channel 6440 in the plunger 6400. The pin 6250 includes a pin flange 6252 configured to abut the step 6414. Thus, when the retainer 6450 is screwed into the plunger 6400, the pin 6250 is slidingly captured in the plunger 6400 between the step 6414 and the retainer 6450.

The first biasing member 3900 is disposed in the plunger 6400 in the channel 6440 between the pin 6250 and the retainer 6450. The pin 6250 is partially disposed in the first biasing member 3900 until the pin flange 6252 abuts the first biasing member 3900. Accordingly, first biasing member 3900 is captured between retainer 6450 and pin 6250 to urge pin 6250 to move away from retainer 6450. In other words, the first biasing member 3900 pushes the pin 6250 to extend the pin 6250 out of the plunger 6400 until the pin flange 6252 contacts the step 6414. Thus, the pin 6250 is spring loaded in the plunger 6400 to contact the inner surface 6214 of the barrel.

The plate 6600 is disposed in the barrel 6200 and is rotatably and slidably disposed about the plunger 6400 along the second body section 6420. The panel 6600 comprises a main body 6610 and a flange 6620. The flange 6620 extends radially away from the body 6610 to define a step 6612. When the container 6000 is assembled, the plate 6600 is captured between the body 6460 of the retainer 6450 and the tapered section 6412 of the plunger 6400. As shown in fig. 22A-D, the axial distance from the body 6460 to the body 6610 is referred to as D11.

The second biasing member 6950 is disposed about the body 6460 of the retainer 6450 to abut the flange 6470 at the step 6472. In the example of fig. 22A-D, the second biasing member 6950 is a compression spring. The second biasing member 6950 is disposed about the main body 6610 of the plate 6600 to abut the flange 6620 at the step 6612. Thus, the second biasing member 6950 is captured between the plate 6600 and the retainer 6450 to urge the plate 6660 away from the retainer 6450 and toward the tapered section 6412. Thus, the second body section 6420 of the plunger 6400 is partially disposed in the second biasing member 6950.

The poppet valve 6500 is rotatably and slidably disposed in the cylinder 6200 and the valve body 7000. The poppet valve 6500 includes a body 6510, an inner surface 6512, an annular extension 6520, a guide flange 6530, an upper retention flange 6542, and a lower retention flange 6544. In this embodiment, the poppet valve 6500 is made of a metallic material (e.g., brass, stainless steel, etc.), but it may also be made of any suitable material. It should be understood that poppet valve 6500 may also be referred to as a valve seat retainer.

The upper and lower retention flanges 6542, 6544 extend radially away from the body 6510. The lower retention flange 6544 is configured to fit inside the valve seat 7112 without contacting the valve seat. The outer diameter of the upper retention flange 6542 is greater than the outer diameter of the lower retention flange 6544.

The annular extension 6520 extends axially away from the main body 6510 relative to the upper and lower retainer flanges 6542, 6544. The poppet valve 6500 slides along the annular extension 6520 in the cylinder 6200. The annular extension 6520 has an internal step 6522. The annular extension 6520 and the body 6510 define a void 6590. The plate 6600 is disposed within and engages the annular extension 6520 to abut the internal step 6522. In some examples, the annular extension 6520 is crimped over the flange 6620 of the plate 6600 to capture the flange 6620 against the internal step 6522. In some examples, the plate 6600 is pressed into the poppet valve 6500 until the flange 6620 contacts the internal step 6522 to form an interference fit between the flange 6620 and the annular extension 6520. Thus, the second biasing member 6950 is disposed in the poppet valve 6500. Additionally, a spring support screw 6450 is partially disposed in poppet valve 6500. It should be appreciated that the plate 6600 and poppet 6500 move as a unit relative to the plunger 6400 and retainer 6450. As the poppet valve 6500 moves away from the plunger 6400, the second biasing member 6950 is compressed within the void 6590, and vice versa. The void 6590 communicates with the passage 6490. It should be appreciated that because voids 6291, 6292, 6590, channels 6440, 6490 and inlet 7110a communicate with each other, a vacuum is substantially prevented from forming between retainer 6450 and poppet 6500.

The guide flange 6530 extends radially away from the main body 6510 between the upper retention flange 6542 and the annular extension 6520. In some examples, the outer diameter of the guide flange 6530 is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the annular extension 6520. The poppet valve 6500 slides along the second cylindrical region 7122 via the guide flange 6530. In other words, the guide flange 6530 rotatably and slidably contacts the second cylindrical region 7122 to limit lateral movement of the poppet valve 6500 relative to the valve body 7000, plunger 6400, and barrel 6200. In addition, the guide flange 6530 provides a radial clearance between the poppet valve 6500 and the shim 8000. Thus, when the poppet 6500 slides axially in the valve body 7000 and the cylinder 6200, the poppet 6500 does not contact the gasket 8000.

The valve seat sheet 6700 is disposed about the poppet valve 6500 between the upper retention flange 6542 and the lower retention flange 6544. The upper retention flange 6542 and the lower retention flange 6544 retain the valve seat insert 6700 on the poppet valve 6500. In some examples, the valve seat sheet 6700 is partially conical. The valve seat sheet 6700 is comprised of an elastomeric polymer material (e.g., rubber, plastic, etc.). Thus, valve seat sheet 6700 is configured to sealingly seat against valve seat 7112 and fill the contact between valve body 7000 and poppet valve 6500. As shown in fig. 22A-D, the distance from the valve seat flap 6700 to the valve seat 7112 is referred to as D14.

It is to be appreciated and understood that the plunger 6400, the retainer 6450, the plate 6600, the pin 6250, the first biasing member 3900, the second biasing member 6950, the valve seat sheet 6700, and the poppet valve 6500 can be slidably removed from the barrel 6200 as a unit.

The nut 6300 has a top surface 6302 and a bottom surface 6304. The nut 6300 has a non-circular outer perimeter to allow torque to be applied to the nut with a corresponding tool, as shown in fig. 20 and 21. The nut 6300 defines an annular pocket 6314 and is internally threaded to define a void 6390. The sealing member 3800 is an annular elastomer (e.g., O-ring, etc.) and is partially disposed in the annular pocket 6314 to extend slightly beyond (e.g., be raised above) the bottom surface 6304. The nut 6300 receives and threadably engages the threaded end 6212 of the barrel 6200. As the nut 6300 is tightened on the barrel 6200, the sealing member 3800 is compressed between the nut 6300 and the coil 3100 until the bottom surface 6304 contacts the coil 3100. Thus, the sealing member 3800 prevents water, dust and debris from entering between the coil 3100 and the barrel 6200.

It should be appreciated that because the nut 6300, flange 6320, and first annular extension 6240 have non-circular outer perimeters, a counter torque is applied to the nut 6300, the barrel 6200, and/or the valve body 7000. Accordingly, the nut 6300 may be removed from the barrel 6200 without unscrewing the barrel 6200 from the valve body 7000. Accordingly, the coil 3100 may be removed (e.g., for servicing, replacement, cleaning, etc.) without breaking the seal between the cartridge 6200 and the valve body 7000 provided by the gasket 8000. Further, the nut 6300 may be tightened onto the barrel 6200 without over-tightening the barrel 6200 into the valve body 7000. Additionally, the washer 8000, coil 3100, barrel 6200, pin 6250, nut 6300, plunger 6400, retainer 6450, poppet 6500, plate 6600, valve seat piece 6700, seal member 3800, first biasing member 3900, and second biasing member 6950 can be removed as a unit from the valve body 7000.

In operation, as shown in fig. 22A, when valve assembly 6000 is in a fully closed position, valve seat sheet 6700 is seated in valve seat 7112 and retainer 6450 axially contacts inner surface 6512 of poppet valve 6500. It should be appreciated that distance d14 is zero when valve assembly 6000 is in the fully closed position. When valve assembly 6000 is in the fully closed position, the friction between valve seat sheet 6700 and valve seat 7112 and the fluid pressure exerted on poppet valve 6500 keeps valve seat sheet 6700 seated in valve seat 7112. Further, in some examples, coil 3100 is energized to push poppet valve 6500 toward valve body 7000 through plunger 6400 and retainer to maintain a tight seal between valve seat sheet 6700 and valve seat 7112.

In operation, as shown in fig. 22B, when the coil 3100 is initially energized in a closing direction to open the valve assembly 6000, the plunger 6400 and retainer 6450 are drawn into the barrel 6200 until the body 6460 contacts the body 6610. In other words, when the valve seat sheet 6700 is seated in the valve seat 7112 and the retainer 6450 contacts the plate 6600 to compress the biasing member 6950, the valve assembly 6000 is in the intermediate position, as shown in fig. 22B. Thus, distance d11 is closed, distance d12 is substantially constant, distance d13 is reduced, and distance d14 remains closed, as shown in fig. 22A and B. In the example of fig. 22A and B, the distance d11 decreases from about 4.5mm to zero. In the example of fig. 22A and B, the distance d13 decreases from about 5mm to about 0.5 mm. Thus, the electromagnetic force exerted by the coil 3100 on the plunger 6400 overcomes the spring force of the first and second biasing members 3900, 6950 to move the valve assembly 6000 from the closed position shown in fig. 22A to the intermediate position shown in fig. 22B. In other words, in the intermediate position shown in fig. 22B, the first and second biasing members 3900 and 6950 are compressed, but the valve seat sheet 6700 is not removed (e.g., removed) from the valve seat sheet 7112.

Further, in operation, as shown in fig. 22C, when the coil 3100 is further energized to open the valve assembly 6000, the plunger 6400, the retainer 6450, the plate 6600, the second biasing member 6950, and the poppet 6500 are drawn into the cylinder 6200 until the plunger 6400 contacts the inner surface 6214 and the valve seat sheet 6700 is removed from the valve seat 7112. In other words, when the retainer 6450 contacts the plate 6600 and the plunger 6400 contacts the inner surface 6214 to remove the valve seat insert 6700 from the valve seat 7112, the valve assembly 6000 is in a partially open position, as shown in fig. 22C. Thus, distance d11 remains closed, distance d13 is closed, distance d12 decreases, and distance d14 increases, as shown in fig. 22B and C. In the example of fig. 22B and C, the distance d13 decreases from about 0.5mm to zero. In the example of fig. 22B and C, the distance d12 decreases from about 5.2mm to about 4.7 mm. In the example of fig. 22B and C, the distance d14 increases from zero to about 0.5 mm. Thus, the electromagnetic force exerted by the coil 3100 on the plunger 6400 overcomes the frictional force between the valve seat flap 6700 and the valve seat 7112 and/or the pressure exerted on the poppet 6500 to move the valve assembly 6000 from the intermediate position shown in fig. 22B to the partially open position shown in fig. 22C. In other words, in the partially open position shown in fig. 22C, the first and second biasing members 3900 and 6950 are compressed and the valve seat sheet 6700 is pulled away from the valve seat 7112 (e.g., cracked). Thus, the valve seat sheet 6700 is removed from the valve seat 7112.

Further, in operation, as shown in fig. 22D, when the coil 3100 is energized to hold the plunger 6400 against the inner surface 6214, the second biasing member 6950 extends to push the plate 6600 further into the cylinder 6200 until the flange 6470 contacts the poppet valve 6500 to pull the poppet valve 6500 and valve seat flap 6700 further away from the valve seat 7112. In other words, when retainer 6450 contacts poppet valve 6500 and plunger 6400 contacts inner surface 6214 to retract valve seat insert 6700 from valve seat 7112, valve assembly 6000 is in a partially open position, as shown in fig. 22D. Thus, distance D13 is closed, distance D12 is decreased, distance D11 is increased, and distance D14 is increased, as shown in fig. 22C and D. In the example of fig. 22C and D, the distance D12 decreases from about 4.7mm to about 0.2 mm. In the example of fig. 22C and D, the distance D11 increases from 0 to about 4.5 mm. In the example of fig. 22C and D, the distance D14 increases from about 0.5mm to about 1.6 mm. Thus, the spring force exerted by the second biasing member 6950 between the retainer 6450 and poppet valve 6500 through plate 6600 moves the valve assembly 6000 from the partially open position shown in fig. 22C to the fully open position shown in fig. 22D. In other words, in the fully open position shown in fig. 22D, the first biasing member 3900 is compressed, the second biasing member 6950 is expanded, the plunger 6400 contacts the interior surface 6214, the retainer 6450 contacts the poppet valve 6500, and the valve seat sheet 6700 is retracted from the valve seat 7112. Thus, the valve assembly 6000 is fully opened as shown in fig. 22D.

Further, in operation, as shown in fig. 22A and D, when the coil 3100 is energized in a closing direction to close the valve assembly 6000, the plunger 6400, the retainer 6450, the plate 6600, the second biasing member 6950, and the poppet valve 6500 are pushed out of the barrel 6200 until the valve seat sheet 6700 seats against the valve seat 7112. Thus, distance D13 increases, distance D12 increases, distance D11 is substantially constant, and distance D14 closes, as shown in fig. 22A and D. In the example of fig. 22A and D, the distance D12 increases from about 0.2mm to about 5.2 mm. In the example of fig. 22A and D, the distance D13 increases from 0 to about 5 mm. In the example of fig. 22A and D, the distance D14 decreases from about 1.6mm to zero. Thus, the valve assembly 6000 is completely closed as shown in fig. 22A.

While specific embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alternatives to those details could be developed in light of the overall teachings of the disclosure. Accordingly, the particular arrangements disclosed are meant to be illustrative only and not limiting as to the scope of the invention which is to be given the full breadth of the claims appended and any and all equivalents thereof.

In various embodiments, a cryogenic tank control system for regulating fluid within a cryogenic tank comprises: a pressure relief and venting module fluidly connectable to a headspace above a liquid within the cryogenic tank; a manual valve module fluidly connectable to the liquid and an external device within the cryogenic tank; a solenoid valve module fluidly connectable to the manual valve module and the headspace within the cryogenic tank; an accumulation coil fluidly connectable to the manual valve module and the solenoid valve module; and a controller operatively connected to the solenoid valve module to control fluid flow through the solenoid valve module.

In one such embodiment, the pressure relief and venting module includes a pressure relief valve including a pressure relief valve inlet and a pressure relief valve outlet. The pressure relief valve is movable between a pressure relief valve closed configuration in which fluid cannot flow from the pressure relief valve inlet to the pressure relief valve outlet, and a pressure relief valve open configuration in which fluid can flow from the pressure relief valve inlet to the pressure relief valve outlet. The pressure relief valve is biased to the pressure relief valve closed configuration and is configured to move to the pressure relief valve open configuration when a pressure of fluid at the pressure relief valve inlet exceeds a pressure relief valve threshold.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module includes a first valve including a first valve inlet and a first valve outlet. The first valve is movable between a first valve open configuration in which fluid may flow from the first valve inlet to the first valve outlet, and a first valve closed configuration in which fluid may not flow from the first valve inlet to the first valve outlet. The first valve inlet may be fluidly connected to the liquid within the cryogenic tank, and the first valve outlet may be fluidly connected to an accumulation coil inlet of the accumulation coil.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module includes a solenoid valve module valve body defining a solenoid valve module inlet, a solenoid valve module outlet, and a solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet. An accumulation coil outlet of the accumulation coil may be fluidly connected to the solenoid valve module inlet, and the solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet may be fluidly connected to the headspace within the cryogenic tank.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module further comprises a first solenoid valve supported by the solenoid valve module valve body and movable between a first solenoid valve closed configuration in which the first solenoid valve prevents fluid flow from the solenoid valve module inlet to the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet and a first solenoid valve open configuration in which the first solenoid valve enables fluid flow from the solenoid valve module inlet to the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet.

In another such embodiment, the first solenoid valve includes a solenoid coil biased to the first solenoid valve closed configuration and configured to move from the first solenoid valve closed configuration to the first solenoid valve open configuration when the solenoid coil is energized.

In another such embodiment, the controller is configured to energize the solenoid of the first solenoid when the sensed headspace pressure is below a first solenoid threshold.

In another such embodiment, the first valve, the accumulation coil, and the first solenoid valve form a pressure build circuit. When the first valve inlet is in fluid communication with the liquid within the cryogenic tank, the first valve outlet is in fluid communication with the first valve inlet, the first valve outlet is in fluid communication with the solenoid valve module inlet, the solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet is in fluid communication with the headspace within the cryogenic tank, when the first valve is in the first valve open configuration and the sensed pressure is below the first solenoid valve threshold, liquid flows through the first valve from the cryogenic tank to the accumulation coil inlet, the accumulation coil vaporizes the liquid into a gas that flows from the accumulation coil outlet to the solenoid valve module inlet, the gas flows from the solenoid valve module inlet to the solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet, and the gas flows from the solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet to the headspace within the cryogenic tank.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module includes a solenoid valve module valve body defining a solenoid valve module inlet, a solenoid valve module outlet, and a solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet. The solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet may be fluidly connected to the headspace within the cryogenic tank.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module includes a second valve including a second valve inlet and a second valve outlet and movable between a second valve open configuration in which fluid may flow from the second valve inlet to the second valve outlet and a second valve closed configuration in which fluid may not flow from the second valve inlet to the second valve outlet. The second valve inlet may be fluidly connected to the solenoid valve module outlet, and the second valve outlet may be fluidly connected to an external device.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve module further includes a second solenoid valve supported by the solenoid valve module valve body and movable between a second solenoid valve closed configuration in which the second solenoid valve prevents fluid flow from the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet to the solenoid valve module outlet and a second solenoid valve open configuration in which the second solenoid valve enables fluid flow from the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet to the solenoid valve module outlet.

In another such embodiment, the second solenoid valve includes a solenoid coil biased to the second solenoid valve closed configuration and configured to move from the second solenoid valve closed configuration to the second solenoid valve open configuration when the solenoid coil is energized.

In another such embodiment, the controller is configured to energize the solenoid of the second solenoid when the sensed headspace pressure is above a second solenoid threshold.

In another such embodiment, the second valve and the second solenoid valve form an economizer circuit. When the solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet is in fluid communication with the headspace within the cryogenic tank, the solenoid valve module outlet is in fluid communication with the second valve inlet, the second valve outlet is in fluid communication with the external device, the second valve is in the second valve open configuration, and the sensed pressure is above the second solenoid valve threshold, gas flows from the headspace within the cryogenic tank to the solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet, from the solenoid valve module combined inlet/outlet to the solenoid valve module outlet, from the solenoid valve module outlet to the second valve inlet, from the second valve inlet to the second valve outlet, and from the second valve outlet to the external device.

In another such embodiment, the cryogenic tank control system further comprises an overflow valve in fluid communication with the second valve outlet and configured to route the gas from the second valve outlet to the external device.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module further comprises a check valve comprising: a check valve inlet fluidly connectable to the liquid within the cryogenic tank; and a check valve outlet fluidly connectable to the second valve inlet and the solenoid valve module outlet.

In another such embodiment, the check valve is configured to prevent gas flowing from the solenoid valve module outlet from flowing from the check valve outlet to the check valve inlet.

In another such embodiment, when the solenoid valve module combination inlet/outlet is in fluid communication with the headspace within the cryogenic tank, the solenoid valve module outlet is in fluid communication with the second valve inlet, the second valve outlet is in fluid communication with the external device, the check valve inlet is in fluid communication with the liquid within the cryogenic tank, the check valve outlet is in fluid communication with the second valve inlet and the solenoid valve module outlet, when the second valve is in the second valve open configuration and the sensed pressure is below the second solenoid valve threshold, liquid flows from the cryogenic tank to the check valve inlet, from the check valve inlet to the check valve outlet, from the check valve outlet to the second valve inlet, from the second valve inlet to the second valve outlet, and from the second valve outlet to the external device.

In another such embodiment, the cryogenic tank control system further comprises an overflow valve in fluid communication with the second valve outlet and configured to route the liquid from the second valve outlet to the external device.

In various embodiments, a pressure relief device and vent module for a cryogenic tank control system includes a housing defining: a fluid inlet; a pressure relief device supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet; and a valve supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The valve is movable between a valve-closed configuration in which the valve prevents fluid received at the fluid inlet from flowing through the valve, and a valve-open configuration in which the valve enables fluid received at the fluid inlet to flow through the valve.

In one such embodiment, the pressure relief device is movable between a pressure relief valve closed configuration in which fluid received at the fluid inlet cannot flow through the pressure relief device, and a pressure relief valve open configuration in which fluid received at the fluid inlet can flow through the pressure relief device.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device includes a biasing element that biases the pressure relief device to the pressure relief device closed configuration.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device moves from the pressure relief device closed configuration to the pressure relief device open configuration when the pressure of the fluid received at the fluid inlet exceeds a first threshold pressure.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and exhaust module further comprise a second pressure relief device supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the second pressure relief device includes a rupture disk configured to rupture when the pressure of the fluid received at the fluid inlet exceeds a second threshold pressure.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and exhaust module further comprise a pressure gauge supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the pressure gauge is configured to display the pressure of the fluid received at the fluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the housing further defines a pressure build circuit inlet fluidly connectable to an outlet of the pressure build circuit and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and exhaust module further comprise an exhaust reservoir supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the valve.

In another such embodiment, the pressure relief device and exhaust module further comprises: a second pressure relief device supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet; and a pressure gauge supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet.

In various embodiments, a pressure relief device and vent module for a cryogenic tank control system includes a housing defining: a fluid inlet; and a plurality of mounting openings in fluid communication with the fluid inlet; and a valve supported by the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid inlet. The valve is movable between a valve-closed configuration in which the valve prevents fluid received at the fluid inlet from flowing through the valve, and a valve-open configuration in which the valve enables fluid received at the fluid inlet to flow through the valve.

In various embodiments, a manual valve module for a cryogenic tank control system comprises: a housing; a first valve supported by the housing; a check valve supported by the housing; and a second valve supported by the housing. The first valve is movable between a first valve closed configuration in which the first valve prevents fluid flow through the first valve and a first valve open configuration in which the first valve enables fluid flow through the first valve. The second valve is movable between a second valve-closed configuration in which the second valve prevents fluid flow through the second valve and a second valve-open configuration in which the second valve enables fluid flow through the second valve.

In one such embodiment, the first valve is a shut-off valve.

In another such embodiment, the first valve and the second valve are shut-off valves.

In another such embodiment, the manual valve module further comprises a relief valve in fluid communication with the second valve.

In various embodiments, a solenoid valve module for a cryogenic tank control system comprises: a valve body defining a fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, and a combined fluid inlet/outlet; a first solenoid valve supported by the valve body; and a second solenoid valve supported by the valve body. The first solenoid valve is movable between a first closed configuration in which the first solenoid valve prevents fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the combined fluid inlet/outlet and a first open configuration in which the first solenoid valve enables fluid flow from the fluid inlet to the combined fluid inlet/outlet. The second solenoid valve is movable between a second closing arrangement in which the second solenoid valve prevents fluid flow from the combined fluid inlet/outlet to the fluid outlet and a second opening arrangement in which the second solenoid valve enables fluid flow from the combined fluid inlet/outlet to the fluid outlet.

In one such embodiment, the first solenoid valve includes a first solenoid coil, is biased to the first closed configuration, and is configured to move from the first closed configuration to the first open configuration when the first solenoid coil is energized.

In another such embodiment, the second solenoid valve includes a second solenoid coil, is biased to the second closed configuration, and is configured to move from the second closed configuration to the second open configuration when the second solenoid coil is energized.

In various embodiments, a valve for delivering a fluid includes: a valve body including a valve seat and defining an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with each other; a compression nut mounted to the valve body; a lower stem in threaded engagement with the valve body; a valve seat sheet mounted to the lower stem; an upper valve stem matingly engaged to the lower valve stem such that rotation of the upper valve stem rotates the lower valve stem; and a biasing member extending between the upper stem and the lower stem and biasing the upper stem into sealing engagement with the gland nut. The valve is movable between a closed configuration in which the valve seat insert sealingly engages the valve seat and prevents fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet, and an open configuration in which the valve seat insert is disengaged from the valve seat and enables fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet.

In one such embodiment, the upper stem is in the same position when the valve is in the closed configuration and the open configuration.

In another such embodiment, when the valve is in the open configuration, rotation of the upper stem in a first direction causes the lower stem to begin to unscrew from the valve body and move toward the valve seat.

In another such embodiment, when the valve is in the closed configuration, rotation of the upper stem in a second direction different from the first direction causes the lower stem to begin to screw back onto the valve body and move away from the valve seat.

In another such embodiment, the valve further comprises a first sealing member located between the compression nut and the upper stem, wherein the biasing member biases the upper stem into contact with the first sealing member to compress the first sealing member between the compression nut and the upper stem.

In another such embodiment, the valve further comprises a second sealing member located between the compression nut and the upper stem.

In another such embodiment, the first seal member includes a tapered outer surface.

In another such embodiment, the upper stem and the lower stem may be rotatable relative to the compression nut and the valve body.

In another such embodiment, the upper valve stem includes a lower valve stem engagement portion including an upper valve stem engagement surface defining an upper valve stem receiving aperture, and the lower valve stem engagement portion of the upper valve stem is received in the upper valve stem receiving aperture defined by the lower valve stem to matingly engage the upper valve stem to the lower valve stem.

In another such embodiment, the lower stem engagement portion includes a plurality of flats that each engage a portion of the upper stem engagement surface of the lower stem.

In another such embodiment, the upper valve stem includes a tool engagement portion shaped to be engaged by a tool to facilitate rotation of the upper valve stem.

In various embodiments, a solenoid valve assembly comprises: a valve body including a valve seat and defining an inlet and an outlet in fluid communication with each other; a barrel mounted to the valve body; a plunger slidingly received by the barrel; a valve seat sheet retainer slidingly received by the cartridge; a retainer attached to the valve seat sheet retainer such that the retainer and the valve seat sheet retainer form a plunger head receiving chamber that receives a head portion of the plunger; a valve seat sheet attached to the valve seat sheet retainer; and a solenoid energizable to move the solenoid valve assembly from a closed configuration in which the valve seat piece sealingly engages the valve seat and prevents fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet, to an open configuration in which the valve seat piece disengages the valve seat and enables fluid flow from the inlet to the outlet.

In one such embodiment, the solenoid may be energized to move the solenoid valve assembly from the closed configuration to a first intermediate configuration, from the first intermediate configuration to a second intermediate configuration, and from the second intermediate configuration to the open configuration.

In another such embodiment, the plunger is in a first plunger position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration and in a second plunger position different from the first plunger position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the plunger is located at a third plunger position different from the first plunger position and the second plunger position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the plunger is in the third plunger position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the open configuration.

In another such embodiment, the valve seat retainer is in a first valve seat retainer position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration and when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the valve seat sheet retainer is located at a second valve seat sheet retainer position different from the first valve seat sheet retainer position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the valve seat sheet retainer is located at a third valve seat sheet retainer position different from the second valve seat sheet retainer position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the retainer is in a first retainer position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration and when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the retainer is located at a second retainer position different from the first retainer position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the retainer is located at a third retainer position different from the second retainer position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the valve seat insert is in a first valve seat insert position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration and when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the valve seat insert is located at a second valve seat insert position different from the first valve seat insert position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the valve seat flap is in a third valve seat flap position that is different from the second valve seat flap position when the solenoid valve assembly is in the second intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, the valve seat sheet sealingly engages the valve seat when the solenoid valve assembly is in the closed configuration and when the solenoid valve assembly is in the first intermediate configuration.

In another such embodiment, movement of the solenoid valve assembly from the closed configuration to the open configuration comprises movement of the plunger relative to the valve seat retainer, the retainer and the valve seat sheet and subsequent movement of the valve seat retainer, the retainer and the valve seat sheet relative to the plunger.

In another such embodiment, the solenoid valve assembly further comprises a biasing member that biases the solenoid valve assembly to the closed configuration.

In another such embodiment, the biasing member extends between the barrel and the plunger.