US20140312076A1

US20140312076A1 - Telescoping dip tube assembly and method of use

Info

Publication number: US20140312076A1
Application number: US14/254,588
Authority: US
Inventors: Thomas A. Hansen
Original assignee: Kinley Construction Group Ltd
Current assignee: Kinley Construction Group Ltd
Priority date: 2013-04-18
Filing date: 2014-04-16
Publication date: 2014-10-23
Also published as: WO2014172537A1

Abstract

A telescoping dip tube assembly having a first tube which telescopes within a second tube. The exterior surface of the first tube has a first tube stop ring extending outwardly from its exterior surface adjacent its bottom end. The second tube has a second tube stop ring which extends inwardly from its interior surface. When the second tube is lowered over the first tube, the bottom surface of the second tube stop ring engages the top surface of the first tube stop ring, thereby preventing the second tube from separating from the first tube. This arrangement provides the advantage of a telescoping dip tube assembly that is strong and durable and prevents the second tube from falling into a tanker while being loaded.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/813,358 filed Apr. 18, 2013.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a dip tube. More specifically, and without limitation, this invention relates to a telescoping dip tube assembly and method of use.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Transporting bulk fluids using bulk transport devices such as tanker trucks and tanker train cars (“tankers”) is old and known in the art. Due in large part to the technological improvements in hydraulic fracturing (“fracking”) oil is now being produced in new and distant places. Much of this newly accessible oil is produced in areas devoid of any means of mass transport such as pipelines or railroads. As such, this new oil must first be pumped into a tanker truck at or near the well head. These tanker trucks are then hauled to a mass transport station such as a pipeline station or a railroad station. Next, the tanker truck is unloaded into the mass transport system.
Hoses and tubes have been used to fill these tanker trucks in the past from the top using a top-fill process. While somewhat effective, due to the hydro-dynamic properties of crude oil, simply pouring or pumping oil into a tanker truck has its disadvantages. Namely, to quickly fill the tanker truck the oil must be pressurized. Pressurization of the oil causes a pressure drop as the oil exits the tube which causes the oil to splash and causes filling tankers to be difficult to precisely control. In addition, crude oil is extremely dangerous as it can burn or explode under the proper conditions, therefore extreme caution must be used in its handling. In addition, negative environmental effects can be capped if the fluids are allowed to splash out of the tanker and onto exterior surface of the tanker or onto the environment around the tanker. By pumping the crude oil into the tanker using a top-fill process causes an enormous amount of turbulence which can lead to increased vaporization of certain components of the oil and potential loss of those vapors to the surrounding environment, which can lead to environmental and health issues, as well as increased danger of fire or explosion. In addition, this turbulence increases the potential for issues related to static electricity.
To cure these deficiencies, bottom-fill systems were developed. In their simplest form, the tube or hose is inserted into the tanker with its open end positioned at or near the bottom of the tanker. Once in this position, oil is pumped through the tube filling the tanker from the bottom up. While in some ways this was an improvement over the top-fill arrangement, these systems too suffer from many disadvantages. Namely, the tube or hose is difficult to control inside of the tanker and the dispersion of the oil suffers from inefficiencies. In addition, the entire length of the tube inserted inside the tanker becomes contaminated. In addition, due to the length of the tube inserted into the tanker truck, the system becomes difficult, inefficient and dangerous to manipulate into position. In addition, the system are extremely heavy which adds to the difficulty of manipulation and the danger of use. In an attempt to cure fuse activities, other, multi-piece systems have been developed. However these systems suffer from the disadvantages of easy breakage and the increased costs that come with complex multi-park designs.
Thus it is a primary object of the invention to provide a system and method of use that improves upon the state of the art.
Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus and method that makes filling tankers easier.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus and method that makes filling tankers safer.
Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus and method that improves the speed at which tankers can be filled.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus and method that reduces the potential for fire or explosion.
Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that is lighter than the prior art.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that is inexpensive to manufacture.
Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that is durable.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus and will not break off or fall into the storage device.
Another object of the invention is to provide a system that improves the amount of control the user has during filling.
Yet another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus that prevents broken pieces from falling into the tanker.
These and other objects, features, or advantages of the invention will become apparent from the specification and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an elevation cut-away side view of a tanker with a dip tube assembly positioned within the tanker, the view showing the neck flange of the dip tube connected to the connecting flange of the tanker, and the bottom plate of the diffuser resting on the bottom of the tanker.

FIG. 2 is an elevation cut-away side view of the top end of the dip tube assembly, the view showing, in part, a vertically aligned catch member extending toward the viewer as well as extending to the side.

FIG. 3 is an elevation cut-away side view of the joint or intersection of the first tube and the second tube, the view showing the first tube stop ring and the second tube stop ring about to engage one another to form a fully extended dip tube assembly, the view also showing an angularly aligned catch arm with a vertically aligned receiving member or notch therein, the view showing the catch arm extending toward the viewer as well as extending to the side.

FIG. 4 is an elevation cut-away side view of the bottom end of the dip tube assembly, the view showing the diffuser with the bottom plate engaging the bottom of the tanker.

FIG. 5 is an elevation cut-away side view of the top end of the dip tube assembly which is similar to FIG. 2, the view showing a vertically aligned catch arm engaging an angularly aligned catch member thereby locking the first tube and the second tube together; the view also showing an insert wherein a vertically aligned catch arm engages an angularly aligned catch member as an alternative.

FIG. 6A is an perspective view of an alternative arrangement of a dip tube assembly, in a retracted position, the arrangement having a neck flange connected to the top end of the first tube.

FIG. 6B is an perspective view of an alternative arrangement of a dip tube assembly, in an extended position, the arrangement having a neck flange connected to the top end of the first tube.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and in which is shown by way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized and that mechanical, procedural, and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
As used herein, the terminology such as vertical, horizontal, top, bottom, front, back, end and sides are referenced according to the views presented. It should be understood, however, that the terms are used only for purposes of description, and are not intended to be used as limitations. Accordingly, orientation of an object or a combination of objects may change without departing from the scope of the invention.
With reference to the drawings, a dip tube assembly 10 is presented. The dip tube assembly 10 is shown as being used in association with a conventional tanker 12 which holds a bulk amount of material. In one arrangement, tanker 12 has an opening 14 in or adjacent its top end. Opening 14 is surrounded by a cylindrical wall 16 which connects at its bottom edge 18 to the top wall of tanker 12 and connects at its top edge 20 to a connecting flange 22 which extends horizontally and outwardly from cylindrical wall 16. As is known in the art, this arrangement is known as a manway opening.
Connecting plate 24 is connected to dip tube assembly 10. Connecting plate 24 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, connecting plate 24 is formed of a generally flat circular plate which is designed to sit upon and flushly engage the top surface of connecting flange 22 of tanker 12 and to thereby form a seal therebetween. In one arrangement, to improve the seal between connecting plate 24 and connecting flange 22, sealing members 25 such as rubber gaskets, foam pieces, O-rings, compressible members, or any other device or object that helps to provide a seal is positioned between connecting plate 24 and connecting flange 22. These sealing members 25 are often installed on the connecting plate 24, however they may be installed on the connecting flange 22 or both the connecting plate 24 and the connecting flange 22. Connecting plate 24 extends between an exterior edge 26, which defines a circular exterior edge, and an interior edge 28, which defines a circular interior opening. As is shown, in one arrangement, when properly aligned, the exterior peripheral edge 26 of connecting plate 24 and connecting flange 22 are in perfect flush alignment with one another. Connecting plate 24 is removably connected to connecting flange 22 by any means known in the art such as screwing, bolting, threading clamping or the like. As one example, as is shown, openings 30 are positioned adjacent the outward edge 26 of connecting plate 24 which are used to pass conventional bolts there through so as to connect connecting pate 24 to connecting flange 22. Alternatively, openings 30 are used to position or hold a portion of a clamp (not shown) such as a C-clamp, which is used to clamp connecting plate to connecting flange 22.
Interior edge 28 defines a centrally positioned opening in connecting plate 24. A first connecting member 32 is connected to connecting plate 24. First connecting member 32 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, first connecting member 32 is a generally circular tube that is positioned within and connected at its lower end to the interior edge 28 of connecting plate 24. In one arrangement, the lower end of first connecting member 32 is welded to the interior edge 28 of connecting plate 24, alternatively the two components are connected to one another by any other means such as being bolted, screwed, adhered, machined, sintered or cast out of a single unitary piece. First connecting member 32 extends upwardly therefrom and terminates in a threaded end 34.
First camlock member 36 is connected to first connecting member 32. First camlock member 36 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, first camlock member 36 is generally cylindrical in shape which extends between a first end 38 and a second end 40. First camlock member 36 is sized and shaped to matingly engage first connecting member 32 with corresponding threads. Alternatively, the two components 32, 36 are connected by any other means. In one arrangement, as is shown, first end 38 of first camlock member 36 fits over the threaded end 34 of first connecting member, and removably and replaceably threads thereover, however the opposite arrangement is hereby contemplated wherein the first connecting member 32 fits over the first camlock member 36. A stop flange 42 extends outwardly from the first end 38 of first camlock member thereby providing additional rigidity to and a stop against over tightening first camlock member 36 on first connecting member 32. A step 44 is positioned in the interior wall of first camlock member 36 wherein the first camlock member 36 transitions from a smaller interior diameter adjacent its second end 40 to a larger interior diameter adjacent its first end 38. Step 44 similarly serves to provide a stop against over tightening first camlock member 36 on first connecting member 32. A cam recess 46 is positioned in the exterior surface of first camlock member 36, which is sized and shaped to receive a cam locking member as is described herein. Cam recess 46 is an arcuately shaped cut-out section in the surface of first camlock member 36, when viewed from the side. Cam recess 46 in one arrangement is a ring or groove which extends around the entire surface of first camlock member 36, or alternatively cam recess 46 is a plurality of cut outs positioned in spaced relation to one another along the surface of first camlock member 36.
Second camlock member 48 is connected to first camlock member 36. Second camlock member 48 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, second camlock member 48 has a first section 50 which is generally cylindrical in shape which connects at its upper end to a second section 52 which generally flat and extends perpendicularly inward from first section 50 and serves to close the open interior of first section 50. First section 50 is sized and shaped to fit over the second end 40 of first camlock member 36 within close tolerances such that it can be removably and replaceably positioned thereover. In one arrangement, as is shown, to facilitate locking thereon camlock handles 54 are connected to the first section 50. Camlock handles 54 pivot on an axle 56 or pivot point connected to first section 50 of second camlock member 48 and have a cam surface 58 which extends through the sidewall of first section 50 such that the handle portion is accessible from the exterior of second camlock member 48 while the cam surface 58 reaches through the second camlock member 48 such that it can frictionally and tightly engage the exterior surface of first camlock member 36. In the arrangement shown, camlock handles 54 rotate on axle 56 along arrow A. When camlock handles 54 are in their upward, locked position (as is shown) cam surface 58 protrudes inwardly from the inside diameter of second camlock member 48 and engages the exterior surface of cam recess 46 thereby locking the two camlock members 36, 48 together. Alternatively, when camlock handles 54 are in their downward, unlocked position (not shown) cam surface 58 does not protrude inwardly from the inside diameter of second camlock member 48 and do not engage the exterior surface of cam recess 46 thereby allowing the two camlock members 36, 48 to be separated from one another. It is hereby contemplated to have the camlock handles 54 tighten against the first camlock member 36 in either the up position (as shown) or alternatively in the down position. When camlock handles 54 are engaged, cam surfaces 58 tightly pull second camlock member 48 onto and over first camlock member 36 thereby providing a tight seal. To improve sealing therebetween, a sealing member 60 such as a rubber gasket, foam piece, O-ring, compressible member, composite piece, or any other device or object that helps to provide a seal is positioned between the second end 40 of first camlock member 36 and the interior surface of second camlock member 48, adjacent the intersection of first section 50 and second section 52. As the camlock handles 54 are engaged, this tightens first camlock member 36 and second camlock member 48 on one another, thereby compressing sealing member 60 therebetween, thereby providing a strong seal that will not leak gas or fluids under even high pressure conditions. In one arrangement, as is shown, a plurality of camlock handles 54 are used with success to make a strong and durable connection, such as for priority at 90° to one another, however more or less handles 54 are hereby contemplated. Second section 52 extends inwardly from first section 50 and terminates at its inside edge 62 which defines an cylindrical open interior.
First tube 64 is positioned within the cylindrical open interior of second section 52 and is connected thereto by any means such as welding, bolting, screwing, adhering, or the like. First tube 64 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, first tube is cylindrical in shape and extends a length from a first end 66 to a second end 68. In one arrangement, first end 66 of first tube 64 is threaded such that it can receive the threaded end of a supply tube 70 which is connected to a source of fluids to be transported. Alternatively, a quick-detach nozzle or connecting member is connected to the threaded first end 66 of first tube 64. A plurality of quick-detach nozzles or connecting members are known in the art and are used for quickly removably and replaceably connecting various fluid conveying members to one another.
The exterior surface of first tube 64 is connected to the interior surface of inside edge 62 of second section 52 of second camlock member 48. This connection is made by any means known in the art, however, in one arrangement, as is shown, the two components are welded together using via weld 72. First tube 64 is connected to second section 52 of second camlock member 48 a distance away from first end 66 so as to provide appropriate length of first tube 64 for connecting to other components.
Catch member 74 protrudes from the exterior surface of first tube 64. Catch member 74 is shown as extending directly toward the viewer as well rotated 90 degrees to show it in profile and extending to the right of the viewer, however only one catch member is or may be used, however multiples is also hereby contemplated. Catch member 74 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, catch member 74 is a generally rectangular protrusion which extends squarely out of the tangent point of first tube 64 near or adjacent its first end 66 and within the interior cylinder of first camlock member 36. However, any other location of first tube 64 at or near the other components described above will suffice and is contemplated.
First tube stop ring 76 is connected to the exterior surface of first tube 64 adjacent or near its second end 68. In one arrangement, as is shown, first tube 64 extends past the bottom edge of first tube stop ring 76 a distance, in another arrangement it is flush with the second end 68. First tube stop ring 76 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, first tube stop ring 76 is an open cylinder with a cylindrical interior edge which matingly engages and receives the exterior surface of first tube 64 with frictional engagement and/or close tolerances. First tube stop ring 76 is connected to first tube 64 by any means known in the art such as welding the first tube stop ring 76 to first tube 64, or alternatively machining or casting first tube 64 and first tube stop ring 76 out of a single unitary piece. In the arrangement shown, first tube stop ring 76 is welded adjacent its lower edge to first tube 64 via weld 77 so as to provide a flat and square and precise top surface of first tube stop ring 76 which extends outwardly perpendicular to the length of first tube 64. Alternatively, both surfaces, top and bottom of first tube stop ring 76 are welded. To provide a flat and flush alignment, the top weld can be machined, ground or otherwise flattened after welding.
Second tube 78 is connected to first tube 64. Second tube 78 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, second tube 78 is cylindrical in shape and extends a length from a first end 80 to a second end 82. In one arrangement, as is shown, second tube 78 is larger in diameter than first tube 64 and therefore second tube 78 is positioned in overlapping condition with first tube 64. In this arrangement, the first end 80 of second tube 78 is positioned above or overlapping with the second end 68 of first tube 64. However in an alternative arrangement, the opposite is true, and the second tube 78 fits within the first tube 64.
Second tube stop ring 84 is connected to the interior surface of second tube 78 adjacent or near its first end 80. In one arrangement, as is shown, second tube 78 extends past the top edge of second tube stop ring 84 a distance, in another arrangement it is flush with the first end 80. Second tube stop ring 84 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, second tube stop ring 84 is an open cylinder with a cylindrical exterior edge which matingly engages and receives the interior surface of second tube 78 with frictional engagement and/or close tolerances. Second tube stop ring 84 is connected to second tube 78 by any means known in the art such as welding the second tube stop ring 84 to second tube 78, or alternatively machining or casting second tube 78 and second tube stop ring 84 out of a single unitary piece. In the arrangement shown, second tube stop ring 84 is welded adjacent its upper edge to second tube 78 via weld 86 so as to provide a flat and square bottom surface of second tube stop ring 84 which extends outwardly perpendicular to the length of second tube 78. Alternatively, both surfaces, top and bottom of second tube stop ring 84 can be welded. To provide a flat and flush alignment, the bottom weld can be machined, ground or otherwise flattened after welding.
Due to the difference in diameter between first tube 64 and second tube 78, first tube 64 and second tube 78 telescope over one another. However, due to the first tube stop ring 76 and the second tube stop ring 84, when the second tube 78 is allowed to telescope down upon first tube 64, the top surface of first tube stop ring 76 engage the bottom surface of second tube stop ring 84, thereby stopping the second tubes downward progression on first tube 64 thereby preventing the second tube 78 from falling into the tanker 12. In this position, the dip tube assembly is in full extension with the bottom surface of second tube stop ring 84 in flat and flush engagement with the top surface of first tube stop rig 76. To improve sealing between first tube stop ring 76 and second tube stop ring 84, a sealing member 88 is positioned between these members, such as a rubber gasket, Teflon, foam piece, O-ring, compressible member, composite piece, or any other device or object that helps to provide a seal is positioned between these members. In one arrangement sealing member 88 as well as any other sealing member or gasket described herein is mechanically held within a groove or other feature and/or is adhered with fuel resistant adhesive (because these devises are often used to transport fuel which can deteriorate many adhesives). In one arrangement, a Teflon gasket (sealing member 88) is secured to the top surface of the first tube stop ring 76 and/or the bottom surface of second tube stop ring 84 using a fuel-resistant adhesive. That is, in one arrangement, a sealing member 88 is connected to the top surface of first tube stop ring 76; in another arrangement a sealing member 88 is connected to the bottom surface of second tube stop ring 88; in yet another arrangement a first sealing member 88 is connected to the top surface of first tube stop ring 76 and a second sealing member 88 is connected to the bottom surface of second tube stop ring 88.
Catch arm 90 is connected to second tube 78. Catch arm 90 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, catch arm 90 is connected to the exterior surface, or alternatively the interior surface, of second tube 78 and extends upwardly past the first end 80 of second tube 78. Catch arm 90 has a receiving member 92 which receives and locks upon catch member 74 therein. In one arrangement, receiving member 92 is a notch or groove that is sized and shaped and aligned to receive the catch member 74 therein. The catch arm 90 is shown extending both toward the viewer as well as rotated 90° to show it in profile and extending to the right of the viewer, however only one or more may be used.
Diffuser 94 is connected to the second end 82 of second tube 78. Diffuser 94 is formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, diffuser 94 has collar 96 which has an upper exterior diameter 98 which is sized and shaped to fit within and frictionally engage the interior diameter of the second end 82 of second tube 78. A step 100 extends outwardly from the bottom edge of the upper exterior diameter 98, thereby defining the point at which collar 96 is fully engaged within the second end 82 of second tube 78. In one arrangement, diffuser 94 is welded to the second end 82 of second tube 78 at the intersection where step 100 engages tube 78. In an alternative arrangement, diffuser 94 is connected to the second end 82 of diffuser by any other means such as threadably engaging the two components together, or machining or casting second tube 78 and diffuser 94 out of a single unitary piece. Collar 96 extends between a top end 102 and a bottom end 104. Top end 102 necks inward to form a smaller interior diameter than second tube 78. Top end 102 angles inward as it extends down so as to improve the flow of material there over. Bottom end 104 is connected to a bell portion 106. In one arrangement, the exterior surface of the bottom end 104 of collar 96 is threaded and the interior of the bell portion 106 is threaded, such that the two components 96, 106 are threadably engaged with one another, however any other form of connection is hereby contemplated for use such as welding, machining or casting the component parts out of a single piece of material.
Bell portion 106 has a hollow open interior which is sized and shaped to connect around the exterior diameter of bottom end 104 of collar 96. Bell portion 106 angles or curves outward and downward from its open interior so as to direct fluids outward and downward as they exit the diffuser 94, thereby also preventing splashing. A bottom plate 110 is positioned a distance below collar 96/bell portion 106 with a space positioned therebetween through which fluids exits the assembly 10. A plurality of wings 108 extend between collar 96/bell portion 106 and bottom plate 110 thereby connecting the two components. Wings 108 are of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, wings 108 have an interior or leading edge 112 and an exterior or following edge 114 which are aligned perpendicular to the center axis of assembly 10; said another way, the vertical length of wings 108 is positioned in parallel spaced alignment to the center axis of assembly 10 and the wings 108 stretch outward from the center axis between leading edge 112 and following edge 114 like spokes in a wheel. This alignment assists with directing fluids outwardly from the end of second tube 78. When viewed from the top or bottom, the leading edge 112 and the following edge 114 come to a point, whereas the middle section is thicker, in this way, the wings 108 take on the approximate shape of an airplane wing. In the arrangement shown, four wings 108 are positioned at approximately 90 degrees to one another, however more or less wings are hereby contemplated such as two, three, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten or more. Bottom plate 110 has a flat bottom surface, or a dimpled or a recessed surface, which defines a bottom plane which is used to flushly engage the bottom of tanker 12 to reduce or eliminate static electricity transmission issues. In the arrangement shown, bottom plate 110 has a punt centrally positioned therein; a recessed bottom surface and a corresponding raised top surface. This punt in bottom plate 110 is any shape such as pyramid, cone, arcuate point, a rounded point, an angular point or the like, and helps to transition fluids flowing down assembly 10 to flowing outward from second end 82 of second tube 78. In the arrangement shown, the top point 115 of the punt in bottom plate 110 is positioned in approximate alignment with the bottom edge of bell portion 106.
Handles 116 are connected to the exterior surface of first tube 64 and or second tube 78. Handles 116 are formed of any suitable size and shape. In one arrangement, as is shown, two handles 116 are connected to the exterior surface of first tube 64 and second tube 78. These handles 116 are positioned at approximately 90 degrees to one another and extend outwardly in alignment with the length of the tubes 64, 78. The pair of handles 116 extending outwardly from the first tube 64 are positioned at or near the first end 66; whereas the pair of handles 116 extending outwardly from the second tube 78 are positioned approximately at the middle of the second tube 78. This is so because the second tube 78 slides over the first tube 64, therefore the handles 116 connected to the first tube 64 are positioned higher up on the first tube 64 so as to prevent them from interfering with the second tube 78 from telescoping over the first tube 64.
In the arrangement shown, handles 116 are rounded rods or pipes or tubes bent into a C-shape and welded to the first tube 64 or second tube 78.
While the assembly 10 is described herein with a first tube 64 and a second tube 78, more tubes are hereby contemplated such as a third, fourth, fifth or more tubes. These tubes would operate in the manner described herein with similar stop rings and the like.
Angle of Catch Arm and Catch Arm: In one arrangement, catch arm 90 extends at an angle to the length of first tube 64 and second tube 78. In this arrangement, the receiving member 92, or the notch, is cut into catch arm 90 in alignment with the length of first tube 64 and second tube 78 and similarly catch member 74, or post, is also aligned with the length of first tube 64 and second tube 78.
In an alternative arrangement, catch arm 90 extends in alignment with the length of first tube 64 and second tube 78. In this arrangement, the receiving member 92, or the notch, is cut into catch arm 90 at an angular or tilted alignment with the length of first tube 64 and second tube 78 and similarly catch member 74, or post, is also positioned at an angular or tilted alignment with the length of first tube 64 and second tube 78.
In Operation: Dip tube assembly 10, starts in its collapsed state or telescoped state, with first tube 64 being positioned within second tube 78, so as to save space and for easier movement and manipulation. In this position, catch arm 90 is locked in engagement with catch member 74, such that catch member 74 is securely received within receiving member 92. Dip tube assembly 10 is connected to the supply of crude oil using quick detach 70 and raised over tanker 12 using a conventional lift arm. Once raised, the dip tube 10 is extended by lifting and rotating second tube 78 such that catch arm 90 disengages catch member 74 thereby allowing second tube 78 to extend down the length of first tube 64. Second tube 78 stops when the bottom surface of second tube stop ring 84 engages the top surface of first tube stop ring 76, thereby compressing any compressible member there between thereby forming a tight seal. In this position, dip tube 10 is inserted into the manway opening 14 of tanker 12 until the bottom edge of bottom plate 110 engages the bottom of tanker 12 such that support is provided for the bottom end of dip tube 10 as well as for conduction of static electricity.
Once fully inserted into tanker 12, the top plate 24 is in flush alignment with the connecting flange 22 of manway opening 14. In this position, the top plate 24 is secured to flange 22 by any means known in the art such as by bolting or clamping, thereby providing a tight seal there between.
Once dip tube 10 is connected, tanker 12 is filled. Crude oil flows through from first end 66 of first tube 64 to the second end 68 and into second tube 78. When the crude oil passes collar 96 adjacent the second end 82 of second tube 78, a portion of the crude oil engages the collar's slanted top edge 102 which, due to its angle, smoothly directs the crude oil downward. Next, the crude oil exits through the opening between bell portion 106/collar 96 and bottom plate 110. As it exits, a portion of the crude oil engages the angled or curved surface of the punt in bottom plate 110 which helps to change the direction of the crude oil from downward to outward. A portion of the crude oil also engages and flows over wings 108 which helps guide the crude oil outward. The downward and outward curved or angled surfaces of bell portion 106 helps to prevent the crude oil from splashing upward, and further helps to guide the crude oil outward from diffuser 94. By directing the crude oil in this way, it prevents splashing and vaporization and reduces the static electricity generated, it also provides for better control during filling.
Other improvements in this assembly include a cable 117 connected to second tube 78 and extending upwardly therefrom such that the cable 117 can be pulled to retract second tube 78 over first tube 64. Alternatively gear teeth can be positioned on the surface of the first tube 64 and/or the second tube 78 along with a gear drive, which can be used to retract and extend second tube 78.
Scratch Preventing Layer: In one arrangement, a compressible member is positioned between the bottom surface of bottom plate 110 and the bottom of tanker 12. This compressible member is designed to prevent scratching to the bottom surface of tanker 12, which are often coated with special coatings depending on the contents carried by the various tankers 12. This compressible member can be a coating of rubber epoxy on the bottom of the diffuser 94. Alternatively, it can be a gasket or seal or any other compressible member that prevents scratching. Alternatively the bottom plate 110 is formed of a non-metallic composite material such as plastic, composite, UHMW material, or the like, which will not scratch the tanker 12.
Grounding Cable: One drawback of this arrangement, is that by using a compressible member between the bottom plate 110 and the tanker 12, this may prevent grounding of the dip tube assembly 10 to the tanker. As such, in one arrangement, a grounding cable 118 is connected between any portion of the dip tube assembly 10 and any portion of the tanker 12. Grounding cable 118 is formed of any electrically conductive material and design. In one arrangement, grounding cable is a copper cable, or flat braided copper grounding cable that is durable and resilient.
Reduced Weight: Also, to reduce weight any and all components described herein, especially first tube 64 and second tube 78 are formed of lightweight aluminum (or another composite, or alloy) as opposed to heavier iron or steel.
As is shown, the dip tube assembly described herein improves upon the state of the art. That is, the dip tube assembly described herein makes filling tankers easier, and safer and improves the speed at which tankers can be filled. The dip tube assembly described herein helps to reduce the risk of fire or explosion, it is inexpensive to manufacture and it is lightweight. The dip tube assembly described herein is easier to control, it is durable and strong and prevents breakage and the second tube from falling into the tanker.
Neck Flange: In an alternative arrangement, to provide a more-permanent application, a neck flange 120 is attached to the first end 66 of first tube 64. Neck flange 120 is formed of any suitable size, shape and design. In the arrangement shown, neck flange 120 is a circular disk having a centrally positioned opening in alignment with the opening of first tube 64, and a plurality of holes 122 positioned around that can be used for bolting the neck flange 120 to the tanker. In one arrangement a 150# aluminum weld neck flange is used for neck flange 120. In this arrangement, a raised sealing ring 124 protrudes just above the upper planar surface of the of neck flange 120 and is itself planar as well. This sealing ring 124 is used for flatly and flushly sealing with the components to which neck flange 120 is connected to.
Self-Cleaning Seals: Due in-part to the fact that the dip tube assembly 10 is often used with hazardous materials, such as crude oil, reducing contamination is of great importance. One improvement to the system 10 is created by the first tube stop ring 76 and the second tube stop ring 84 clearing the opposing tube 64, 78 with close tolerances, or in some cases with frictional engagement. That is, by having first tube stop ring 76 and/or its corresponding sealing member 88 have an exterior diameter surface with close tolerances to, or in sliding frictional engagement with, the interior surface of second tube 78, when the two tubes 64, 78 are collapsed over one another, this close tolerance between the interior diameter of second tube 78 and exterior diameter of first tube stop ring 76 and/or its related sealing member 88 wipes the residue oil or other material off of the interior surface of the second tube 78 thereby causing it to exit the assembly 10 while the assembly 10 is still over the tanker 12. This wiping prevents this residue from dripping out of the dip tube assembly 10 after the dip tube assembly 10 has been removed from the tanker 12.
Not only does the first tube stop ring 76 provide this wiping or cleaning function, but the second tube stop ring 84 and/or its related sealing member 88 does as well. That is, by having second tube stop ring 84 and/or its corresponding sealing member 88 have an interior diameter surface with close tolerances to, or in sliding frictional engagement with, the exterior surface of first tube 64, when the two tubes 64, 78 are collapsed over one another, this close tolerance between the exterior diameter of first tube 64 and interior diameter of second tube stop ring 84 and/or its related sealing member 88 wipes the residue oil or other material off of the exterior surface of the first tube 64 thereby causing it to exit the assembly 10 while the assembly 10 is still over the tanker 12. This wiping prevents this residue from dripping out of the dip tube assembly 10 after the dip tube assembly 10 has been removed from the tanker 12.
To improve this self-cleaning or wiping function, sealing member 88 extends not only from the top or bottom surface of first tube stop ring 64 and/or second tube stop ring 84, in one arrangement these sealing members 88 also extend at least partially into the space between the first tube stop ring 64 and/or second tube stop ring 84 and the surface of the opposing tube first and second tubes 64, 78. This arrangement provides the advantage of improved self-cleaning or wiping, and because the sealing members 88 are at least partially collapsible, they take up some of the dimensional variability between the two tubes 64, 78 thereby providing better cleaning/wiping throughout the length of the tubes 64, 78. Also, reduced friction between the two tubes 64, 78 is accomplished by having the sealing member 88 actually be the part in frictional engagement with the opposing tube 64, 78 as opposed to the hard, metallic stop ring 76, 84.
In an alternative arrangement, to improve self-cleaning or wiping of the opposing tube 64, 78, a separate sealing member 88 is positioned in or connected to the exterior surface of first tube stop ring 76 and/or the interior surface of second tube stop ring 84. These additional sealing members 88 may be adhered to these surfaces of the first tube stop ring 76 and second tube stop ring 84, respectively; and/or they may be frictionally held within a groove or other feature in these surfaces to provide additional holding force, durability and ruggedness.
Quick Detach Flexibility: By providing the dip tube assembly 10 with the quick detach supply tube 70 as well as the quick-detach cam lock handles assembly 54 this allows the operator to pick and choose what components are remain with the tanker 12 for each filling process, and which components are to be removed from (and reattached to) the tanker 12 after each filling process. That is, the quick detach supply tube 70 allows the operator to keep the dip tube assembly 10 with the tanker 12 at all times. Alternatively, the cam lock handles assembly 54 allows the operator to keep connecting plate 24 and first camlock member 36 with the tanker 12, or the entirety of the dip tube assembly 10 can be attached and removed after each filling process.
Not Limited To Oil: While reference is made to crude oil herein, this system and method is not so limited, and instead this system is useful for all other fluids or slurries as well. In addition, while reference is made specifically to filling tanker trucks and tanker rail cars, this system and method is not so limited, and instead this system is useful for filling all other bulk storage devices, bulk transport devices and any other device or system.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the device without parting from the spirit and scope of this invention. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.

Claims

What is claimed:

1. A telescoping dip tube assembly comprising:

a first tube;

a second tube connected to the first tube;

the first tube and the second tube positioned in overlapping condition;

the first tube having a first stop ring extending outwardly from a surface of the first tube;

the second tube having a second stop ring extending outwardly from a surface of the second tube;

wherein the second tube transitions from a retracted position to an extended second position;

wherein when the second tube is in an extended second position, the first stop ring engages the second stop ring thereby defining a fully extended position of the second tube.

2. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 wherein the first stop ring is positioned adjacent a lower end of the first tube.

3. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 wherein the second stop ring is positioned adjacent an upper end of the second tube.

4. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 wherein when in a fully extend position a sealing member is compressed between the first stop ring and the second stop ring thereby sealing intersection of the first tube and the second tube.

5. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 wherein a catch member is connected to the first tube and a catch arm is connected to the second tube, wherein the catch arm engages the catch member thereby locking the second tube in a retracted position.

6. The tip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising a diffuser connected to a lower end of the second tube.

7. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising a diffuser connected to a lower end of the second tube, the diffuser having a plurality of wings positioned between the lower end of the second tube and a bottom plate.

8. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising a diffuser connected to a lower end of the second tube, the diffuser having a plurality of wings positioned between the lower end of the second tube and a bottom plate, wherein the plurality of wings extend outwardly in alignment with a center axis of the second tube.

9. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising a diffuser connected to a lower end of the second tube, the diffuser having a bottom plate, the bottom plate having raised center that extends outwardly as it extends downward in a curved or triangular fashion.

10. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising at least one handle connected to the first tube or the second tube.

11. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising a grounding cable connected to the dip tube assembly on one end and a tanker on another end.

12. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising a neck flange connected to an upper end of the first tube.

13. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 wherein the second tube fits over the first tube.

14. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 wherein the second tube fits within the first tube.

15. The dip tube assembly of claim 1 further comprising a scratch preventing layer positioned on a bottom surface of a bottom plate of the second tube.

16. A telescoping dip tube assembly comprising:

a first tube;

a second tube;

the first tube and the second tube positioned in slideable overlapping condition such that they slide between an extended position and a retracted position,

a first tube stop ring connected to the first tube;

a second tube stop right connected to the second tube;

wherein the first tube stop ring and the second tube stop ring engage one another in the extended position;

a catch arm connected to one of the first tube or the second tube;

a catch member connected to one of the first tube or the second tube;

wherein the catch arm engages the catch member in a retracted position.

17. The dip tube assembly of claim 16 further comprising a diffuser connected to a lower end of the second tube.

18. A telescoping dip tube assembly comprising:

a first tube;

a second tube;

a first tube stop ring connected to the first tube;

a second tube stop right connected to the second tube;

a diffuser connected to a lower end of the second tube;

the diffuser having an flange and a bottom plate separated by a space;

wherein the bottom plate includes a centrally positioned pointed feature that directs fluid outwardly through the space.

19. The dip tube assembly of claim 18 further comprising a plurality of wings positioned in the space between the flange and the bottom plate.

20. The dip tube assembly of claim 18 wherein the flange extends outwardly from the second tube and downwardly in curved fashion.