Patent Application
20240278762
Embodiments of this disclosure relate to vent interlock installation and/or mounting systems and methods, and more particularly, to systems and methods to prevent vehicle operation while a vent cover is open by locking and unlocking brakes of the vehicle and/or activating one or more indicators positioned on and/or in the vehicle based on the vent cover interlock position.
Trailers used to transport asphalt and/or other liquids between locations may include a manway and a manually and/or remotely openable manhole or vent cover covering an aperture or opening positioned at an upper portion or top of the trailer to allow vapors that may form during transit to vent cover from the interior of the trailer and ambient air to enter the interior of the trailer as the asphalt and/or other liquid is pumped from the trailer. The aperture or opening prevents the trailer from collapsing or imploding due to the pressure inside the trailer dropping as the asphalt and/or other liquid is pumped from the trailer. Typically, such trailers are considered non-code trailers and are not subject to the strict regulations for other trailers carrying hazardous materials. Further, while some operators and/or drivers may close the manhole or vent cover prior to transport, often the manhole or vent cover may remain open due to operator and/or driver error.
In the event that the manhole or vent cover is left open during transportation, vapor may be released to the atmosphere and/or asphalt and/or other liquids therein may slosh or spill from the trailer. Further, water may enter the tank in such events, based on environmental conditions (for example, rain or snow). Further still, the hydraulic pump assembly utilized to remotely operate the manhole or vent cover may move during transportation and cause the manhole or vent cover to inadvertently open.
Accordingly, Applicant has recognized a need for systems and methods that reduce risk of transporting asphalt and/or other liquids in a trailer with an open manhole or vent cover. The present disclosure may address one or more of the above-referenced drawbacks or risks, as well as other possible drawbacks or risks.
The present disclosure is generally directed to embodiments of systems and methods for vent interlock installation and/or mounting systems and methods, and more particularly, to systems and methods to prevent vehicle operation while a vent cover is open by locking and unlocking brakes of the vehicle and/or activating one or more indicators positioned on and/or in the vehicle based on the vent interlock position. The vent interlock may be installed, mounted, and/or positioned proximate a hydraulic pump assembly of the trailer. The hydraulic pump assembly may be positioned, for example, at the rear, front, or either side of the trailer. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a valve. The valve may be actuatable via a valve handle. The valve handle may open the valve of the hydraulic pump assembly to bleed pressure from a hydraulic circuit or line or close the valve to thereby allow pressure to be increased in the hydraulic circuit or line. The hydraulic circuit or line may connect to and/or be in fluid communication with a manhole or vent cover. Once the pressure within the hydraulic circuit or line exceeds a pressure threshold, then the manhole or vent cover may open, thus allowing vapor to escape a tank of the trailer and/or ambient air to enter the tank of the trailer. The valve handle may be actuated to an open position to cause the manhole or vent cover to close, as pressure decreases over time. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a hydraulic pump handle configured to and/or positioned on the hydraulic pump assembly to allow or enable a user or operator to increase the pressure within the hydraulic circuit or line when the valve handle is in a closed position. The user or operator may pull the hydraulic pump handle back and up and then push the hydraulic pump handle forward and down, repetitively, (for example, a pumping motion) to cause pressure to increase within the hydraulic circuit or line.
As noted, to cause the manhole or vent cover to close, the user or operator may actuate the valve handle to an open position. Such actions may or may not be performed prior to transportation. As such, the hydraulic vent interlock may prevent the vehicle from operating until the valve handle is actuated to the open position. In such embodiments, the hydraulic vent interlock may include a pivot bar with a proximal end fixedly or removably attached or connected to the trailer proximate to the hydraulic pump assembly. The pivot bar may be a single solid bar, a hollow bar, a u-shaped bar, or two bars positioned parallel to one another. The pivot bar may include at least one aperture at a distal end to allow a pin, cam, or detent to pass therethrough. The hydraulic vent interlock may include an interlock bar. The interlock bar may include corresponding mechanical features (for example, apertures, linkages, or other connectors to attach to a pin, cam, or detent) at a proximal end to enable connection of the interlock bar to the pivot bar. The interlock bar may pivot about the pivot bar. In an embodiment, the pivot bar may include a stop or other mechanism to prevent the interlock bar from pivoting past a selected distance. The interlock bar may include a notch or aperture equidistant from the proximal end to the distal end of the interlock bar. In another embodiment, the notch or aperture may be positioned closer to the proximal end or the distal end. In a further embodiment, the notch or aperture may be formed on-site (for example, during installation) and, as such, the position of the notch or aperture may vary based on the chosen location of the hydraulic vent interlock.
In an embodiment, the hydraulic vent interlock may include a latch. The latch may be a spring operated latch. The spring operated latch may include two fixed members or plates, a spring positioned between the two fixed members or plates, and the plunger passing through apertures in each of the two fixed members and through the spring. The spring may be fixed to the plunger, for example, via a pin or other mechanism connecting the spring to the rod. The plunger may include a handle or curved portion and a and may correspond to the aperture or notch on the interlock bar. At rest, the spring may hold the plunger in an extended position, holding the plunger, when the interlock bar is in a lowered position, such that the plunger extends through the aperture or notch in the interlock bar. As an operator pulls the handle out and when the interlock bar is in a lowered position, the spring may compress and the plunger may recede from the aperture or notch, allowing a user or operator to lift the interlock bar.
When the interlock bar is latched or engaged with the latch, the interlock bar may prevent the movement of the valve handle of the hydraulic pump assembly. When the interlock bar is not engaged with the latch, then the interlock bar may pivot about the pivot bar. Further, the hydraulic vent interlock may include a valve or plunger valve in fluid communication with the trailer's brake subsystem. When the interlock bar is in the lowered position, the valve may be depressed or actuated to an open position, while when the interlock bar is in the raised position, the valve may be raised or closed. When the valve is depressed or opened, air may flow to a controller or relay of the trailer brake subsystem causing the brakes to engage or lock. When the valve is raised or close, air may be prevented from flowing to the brake subsystem, thus causing the brakes to disengage or unlock. Thus, while a vent cover or manhole cover is open, the brakes may be locked or engaged, preventing further movement or transportation.
Further, one or more indicators may be positioned throughout the trailer or cab which the trailer is attached to. For example, the interlock bar may include one or more indicators, such as lights, LEDs, sound emitting devices, and/or other indicators. The indicators may activate when the interlock bar is in the raised position. Other indicators may include an indicator located in the dashboard of the cab of the truck or vehicle, an indicator positioned on a side mirror of the cab of the truck or vehicle, or at other locations within the cab of the truck or vehicle, among other locations of the trailer.
Accordingly, an embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a system to prevent operation of a transportation vehicle while a vent cover remains open. The system may include a hydraulic pump assembly connected to a trailer of the transportation vehicle. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a hydraulic line or hydraulic circuit in fluid communication with a vent cover or manhole cover. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a hydraulic valve positioned along the hydraulic line. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a hydraulic valve handle connected to the hydraulic valve. The hydraulic valve handle may be movable between an open position, to open the hydraulic valve to release or bleed pressure from the hydraulic line or hydraulic circuit, and a closed position, to close the hydraulic valve. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a pump handle to cause the vent cover positioned on the transportation vehicle to open when the hydraulic valve handle is in the closed position and when the pump handle is actuated. The system may include a pivot bar connected to the trailer of the transportation vehicle and proximate the hydraulic pump assembly. The system may include an interlock bar attached to the pivot bar. The interlock bar may rotate about the pivot bar to a lowered position and a raised position. The interlock bar in the lowered position may prevent the hydraulic valve handle from moving from the open position to the closed position and the hydraulic valve handle may prevent the interlock bar from moving to the raised position to the lowered position when the hydraulic valve handle is in the closed position. The system may include a plunger valve connected to brakes of the transportation vehicle. The plunger valve may be configured to be depressed when the interlock bar is in the lowered position to unlock brakes of the transportation vehicle and to be released when the interlock bar is in the raised position to lock the brakes of the transportation vehicle. The system may include a latch attached to the transportation vehicle to, when latched and when the interlock bar is in the lowered position, hold the interlock bar in the lowered position via a notch or aperture in the interlock bar.
In an embodiment, the latch may be a spring operated latch. In another embodiment, the interlock bar may comprise a u-shaped bar including two side walls. Each of the two side walls may include an inner surface, an outer surface, an upper edge, and a lower edge. The u-shaped bar may include a connecting wall including two outer edges. Each outer edge may connect to the upper edge of one of the two side walls. One of the two side walls may include an aperture proximate the lower edge. The latch may include a bar with a handle at a distal end. The bar may extend through the aperture of one of the two side walls when a spring of the spring operated latch is at rest.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a vent interlock system to ensure vent cover closure prior to operation of a transportation vehicle. The system may include a pivot bar connected to a trailer of the transportation vehicle and proximate a hydraulic pump assembly. The system may include an interlock bar attached to the pivot bar. The interlock bar may rotate about the pivot bar to a lowered position and a raised position, the interlock bar in the lowered position to prevent a hydraulic valve handle of the hydraulic pump assembly from moving from an open position to a closed position. The hydraulic valve handle may prevent the interlock bar from moving to the raised position to the lowered position when the hydraulic valve handle is in the closed position. The hydraulic valve handle, in the closed position, may allow a vent cover of the trailer to be opened and the hydraulic valve handle, in the open position, may cause, when the vent cover is open, the vent cover to close. The system may include a plunger valve connected to brakes of the transportation vehicle. The plunger valve may be configured to be depressed when the interlock bar is in the lowered position to unlock brakes of the transportation vehicle and to be released when the interlock bar is in the raised position to lock the brakes of the transportation vehicle to prevent operation of the transportation vehicle. The system may include a spring operated latch attached to the transportation vehicle to, when latched and when the interlock bar is in the lowered position, hold the interlock bar in the lowered position via a notch or aperture in the interlock bar.
In another embodiment, the interlock bar may include an indicator. The indicator may be activated when the interlock bar is in the raised position. The indicator may be visible from a cabin of the transportation vehicle when the interlock bar is in the raised position. The indicator may be positioned within a cabin of the transportation vehicle. The indicator may be coupled to the interlock bar. The indicator may be configured to activate when the interlock bar is in the raised position.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a vent interlock system to ensure vent cover closure prior to operation of a transportation vehicle. The system may include an interlock device positionable to a lowered position and a raised position. The interlock device may be configured to, in the lowered position, to prevent a hydraulic valve handle of a hydraulic pump assembly from moving from an opened position to a closed position and to, in the raised position, enable actuation of the hydraulic valve handle. The hydraulic valve handle to prevent the interlock device from moving from the raised position to the lowered position when the hydraulic valve handle is in the closed position. The hydraulic valve handle may, in the closed position, allow a vent cover of a trailer to be opened and may, in the open position, cause, when the vent cover is open, the vent cover to close. The system may include a plunger valve connected to brakes of the transportation vehicle, the plunger valve configured to unlock and lock the brakes of the transportation vehicle to thereby allow or prevent operation of the transportation vehicle based on a position of the interlock device.
In another embodiment, the system may include a spring operated latch attached to the transportation vehicle to, when latched and when the interlock device is in the lowered position, hold the interlock device in the lowered position via a notch or aperture in the interlock device.
In another embodiment, the plunger valve is depressed when the interlock device is in the lowered position. The plunger valve may be configured to unlock the brakes of the transportation vehicle when depressed. The plunger valve may connect to one or more of a transportation vehicle braking subsystem or a trailer braking subsystem. The connection between the plunger valve and the one or more of the transportation vehicle braking subsystem or the trailer braking subsystem may comprise one or more of an electrical connection, a hydraulic connection, or a pneumatic connection. The plunger valve may be configured to generate a signal (a) corresponding to a type of connection between the plunger valve and the brakes of the transportation vehicle and (b) to indicate locking or unlocking of the brakes. The plunger valve may be released when the interlock device is in the raised position. The plunger valve may be configured to lock the brakes of the transportation vehicle when released. The interlock device may include one or more indicators. The one or more indicators may be activated when the interlock device is in the raised position. The one or more indicators may be visible from a cabin of the transportation vehicle when the interlock device is in the raised position.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a kit to provide an interlock bar to prevent operation of a transportation vehicle while a vent cover remains open. The kit may include a container. The kit may include an interlock bar positioned in the container. The kit may include a pivot bar positioned in the container. The pivot bar may be configured to connect to the interlock bar and allow rotation of the interlock bar between a lowered position and a raised position. The kit may include a plunger valve positioned in the container. The plunger valve may be configured to connect to brakes of the transportation vehicle and proximate to the interlock bar, the interlock bar, when in the raised position to release the plunger valve and lock brakes of the transportation vehicle, thereby to prevent operation of the transportation vehicle. The kit may include a spring operated latch positioned in the container, the spring operated latch to attach to a trailer of the transportation vehicle and proximate to the interlock bar, the spring operated latch configured to hold the interlock bar in the lowered position via a notch or aperture.
In an embodiment, the kit may include one or more indicators positioned in the container. The one or more indicators may be configured to signal when the interlock bar is in the raised position and the vent cover is open. The kit may include one or more wire assemblies positioned in the container. Each of the one or more wire assemblies may correspond to and be configured to connect to each of the one or more indicators. The one or more wire assemblies may also be configured to connect to a switch positioned on the interlock bar. The interlock bar, when in the raised position, may be configured to actuate the switch to thereby provide power to the one or more indicators through the one or more wire assemblies. The kit may include a diagram positioned in the container specifying connections between one or more wire assemblies and the switch. The kit may include one or more indicators configured to connect to one or more of (a) the trailer of the transportation vehicle, (b) the interlock bar, or (c) a cabin of the transportation vehicle. The kit may include a plurality of brackets positioned in the container, wherein the plurality of brackets attach to each of (1) the pivot bar and (2) the interlock bar and configured to fasten the pivot bar to the rear of the trailer of the transportation vehicle and connect the interlock bar to the pivot bar. The kit may include one or more indicators positioned in the container, the one or more indicators configured to connect to the interlock bar and a power source, the one or more indicators to receive power from the power source when the interlock bar is in the raised position to thereby indicate that the vent cover is open.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a method to prevent operation of a transportation vehicle while a vent cover remains open. The method may include connecting a pivot bar to a trailer of the transportation vehicle. The method may include connecting an interlock bar to a fixed point on the pivot bar, the interlock bar to rotate about the pivot bar to a lowered position and a raised position. The method may include connecting a plunger valve to a transportation vehicle brakes, the plunger valve configured to be depressed when the interlock bar is in the lowered position to thereby unlock the transportation vehicle brakes of the transportation vehicle, and to be released when the interlock bar is in the raised position to thereby lock the transportation vehicle brakes of the transportation vehicle. The method may include attaching a spring operated latch to the trailer of the transportation vehicle, the spring operated latch configured to prevent or allow rotation of the interlock bar, the spring operated latch positioned to hold the interlock bar in the lowered position.
In another embodiment, the method may include positioning one or more indicators on one or more of: (a) the interlock bar, (b) one or more sides of the transportation vehicle, or (c) in a cabin of the transportation vehicle. In another embodiment, the method may include, connecting the one or more indicators to a first end of one or more wire assemblies, a second end of one or more wire assemblies connected to a power source or a battery to thereby provide power to the one or more indicators when the interlock bar is in the raised position. The one or more indicators may include one or more visual indicators. The spring operated latch may be connected to the interlock bar via a notch or aperture in the interlock bar. The spring operated latch may be attached to the trailer of the transportation vehicle via one or more fasteners or mechanical connections.
The method may further include mounting one or more indicators to one or more of (1) the transportation vehicle or (2) the trailer of the transportation vehicle. The method may include attaching a first end of one of one or more wire assemblies to each of one or more indicators. The method may include passing each of the one or more wire assemblies through the trailer of the transportation vehicle to a cabin of the transportation vehicle. The method may include connecting a second end of one of the one or more wire assemblies to a switch positioned proximate the interlock bar, the switch to create a circuit, when the interlock bar is in the raised position, between a power source and one or more indicators to thereby activate the one or more indicators.
The one or more indicators may be positioned at one or more of (1) the trailer of the transportation vehicle and proximate to the interlock bar or (2) in the cabin of the transportation vehicle. The power source may comprise a battery positioned on the trailer of the transportation vehicle. The one or more indicators comprise one or more lights.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a method to prevent operation of a transportation vehicle while a vent cover remains open. The method may include releasing a spring operated latch connected to the transportation vehicle, the spring operated latch to disengage from a notch or aperture in an interlock bar to thereby enable the interlock bar to rotate about a pivot bar, the pivot bar connected to a trailer of the transportation vehicle and proximate a hydraulic pump assembly, the hydraulic pump assembly to include a hydraulic line, a hydraulic valve handle connected to a hydraulic valve and a hydraulic pump handle. The method may include rotating the interlock bar to one or more of: (1) a lowered position, or (2) a raised position, the interlock bar positioned proximate the hydraulic valve handle, the hydraulic pump handle, and a plunger valve, the interlock bar configured to allow or prevent rotation of the hydraulic valve handle between a closed position and an open position, and cause the plunger valve to move between the raised position and the lowered position, the plunger valve connected to brakes of the transportation vehicle, the plunger valve configured to lock the brakes of the transportation vehicle when the plunger valve is raised to thereby prevent operation of the transportation vehicle. The method may include actuating the hydraulic pump handle to cause the vent cover positioned on the transportation vehicle to open.
In another embodiment, the method may include, if the interlock bar is in the raised position, actuating the interlock bar from the raised position to the lowered position, the interlock bar configured to prevent rotation of the hydraulic valve handle from the open position to the closed position and operation of the hydraulic pump handle when the interlock bar is in the lowered position.
In an embodiment, actuating the interlock bar from the raised position to the lowered position causes the plunger valve to depress, the plunger valve configured to unlock the brakes of the transportation vehicle when the plunger valve is depressed to thereby allow operation of the transportation vehicle. The interlock bar may include an indicator positioned on the interlock bar. The indicator may activate when the interlock bar is released to thereby alert a driver that the interlock bar is open and the brakes of the transportation vehicle are set.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a method to prevent operation of a transportation vehicle while a vent cover remains open. The method may include releasing a spring operated latch connected to a trailer of the transportation vehicle, the spring operated latch to disengage from a notch or aperture on an interlock bar to thereby enable the interlock bar to rotate about a pivot bar, the pivot bar connected to the trailer of the transportation vehicle and proximate to a hydraulic pump assembly. The method may include actuating the interlock bar from a lowered position to a raised position, the interlock bar positioned proximate a plunger valve and a hydraulic valve handle of the hydraulic pump assembly, the interlock bar configured to release the plunger valve when the interlock bar is in the raised position, the plunger valve connected to a brake system of the transportation vehicle and configured to lock the brake system of the transportation vehicle when the plunger valve is released. The method may include rotating the hydraulic valve handle of the hydraulic pump assembly from an open position to a closed position, the hydraulic valve handle connected to a hydraulic valve positioned along a hydraulic line of the hydraulic pump assembly, the hydraulic valve, when in the closed position, configured to allow pressure to build within the hydraulic line. The method may include actuating a pump handle of the hydraulic pump assembly, when the hydraulic valve handle is in the closed position, to an active position to thereby cause the vent cover of the transportation vehicle to open.
In an embodiment, the method may include if the hydraulic valve handle of the hydraulic pump assembly is in the closed position, rotating the hydraulic valve handle from the closed position to the open position to thereby cause the hydraulic valve to close, the hydraulic valve, when in the closed position, to release pressure in the hydraulic line to thereby cause the vent cover of the transportation vehicle to close. The spring operated latch may be fastened or mechanically attached to the transportation vehicle. The method may include, if the interlock bar is in the raised position, actuating the interlock bar from the raised position to the lowered position, the interlock bar, when in the lowered position, configured to prevent rotation of the hydraulic valve handle from the open position to the closed position and depress the plunger valve connected to the brake system of the transportation vehicle thereby unlocks the brake system of the transportation vehicle and allows for operation of the transportation vehicle.
Another embodiment of the disclosure is directed to a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium storing processor-executed instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to determine a position of an interlock bar attached to a trailer of a transportation vehicle via a pivot bar, the interlock bar actuatable to a raised position from a lowered position and to the lowered position from the raised position. The executed instructions may further cause the processor to, in response to detection of the interlock bar in the raised position, (1) activate one or more indicators positioned on a surface of the transportation vehicle, the one or more indicators in an activated state to indicate that a vent cover is open and the transportation vehicle is inoperable; and (2) in response to detection of the interlock bar in the lowered position de-activate one or more indicators positioned on the surface of the transportation vehicle, the one or more indicators in a deactivated state to indicate that the vent cover is closed and the transportation vehicle is operable. The one or more indicators may comprise visual indicators.
Still other aspects and advantages of these embodiments and other embodiments, are discussed in detail herein. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing information and the following detailed description provide merely illustrative examples of various aspects and embodiments, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed aspects and embodiments. Accordingly, these and other implementations, along with advantages and features of the present disclosure herein disclosed, will become apparent through reference to the following description and the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the features of the various embodiments described herein are not mutually exclusive and may exist in various combinations and permutations.
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure will become better understood with regard to the following descriptions, claims, and accompanying drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only several embodiments of the disclosure and, therefore, are not to be considered limiting of the scope of the disclosure.
So that the manner in which the features and advantages of the embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein, as well as others that will become apparent, may be understood in more detail, a more particular description of embodiments of systems and methods briefly summarized above may be had by reference to the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, in which one or more are further illustrated in the appended drawings, which form a part of this specification. It is to be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only various embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope of the systems and methods disclosed herein as it may include other effective embodiments as well.
Typical trailers or non-code trailers include a vent cover or manhole cover located at an upper portion of the trailer. The vent cover or manhole cover may cover an aperture or opening in a tank or trailer and allow air, via the aperture or opening, to enter the tank or trailer and/or vapor to leave the tank or trailer when the vent cover is open or raised (for example, not covering the aperture or opening). When closed, the vent cover or manhole cover may cover the aperture or opening and prevent fluid from spilling from the tank or trailer. The vent cover or manhole cover may be opened remotely (for example, via a hydraulic pump assembly) and/or manually (such as when, for example, an operator climbs to a manway and opens the vent cover or manhole cover). As noted, the vent cover or manhole cover may be opened during loading and/or offloading of product (for example, asphalt and/or other liquids). However, after loading and/or offloading operations, there is no system or apparatus that exists to ensure that the vent cover or manhole cover is closed prior to operating the vehicle (for example, driving to the next destination or location). Thus, the potential exists for asphalt and/or the other liquids to slosh and/or spill during transportation, for unintentional release of vapors, and/or for introduction of unwanted environmental elements (for example, water, debris, and/or other materials or elements) into the trailer. Further, prolonged exposure to ambient air may affect product quality. Thus, the present disclosure, as noted, is generally directed to systems and methods for vent interlock installation and/or mounting systems and methods, and more particularly, to systems and methods to prevent vehicle operation while a vent cover is open by locking and unlocking brakes of the vehicle and/or activating one or more indicators positioned on and/or in the vehicle based on the vent interlock position.
Such a system (also referred to as a vent interlock system) may include and/or a method may utilize a vent or hydraulic vent interlock. The vent interlock may be installed, mounted, and/or positioned proximate a hydraulic pump assembly of the trailer. The hydraulic pump assembly may be positioned at the rear, front, or either side of the trailer. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a valve. The valve may be actuatable via a valve handle (for example, turning the valve handle, for example, 90 degrees may cause the valve to open or close to release or prevent release of pressure). The valve handle may open the valve of the hydraulic pump assembly to bleed pressure from a hydraulic circuit or line and close the valve to thereby allow pressure to be increased in the hydraulic circuit or line. The hydraulic circuit or line may connect to and/or be in fluid communication with a manhole cover or vent cover. Once the pressure within the hydraulic circuit or line exceeds a pressure threshold, then the manhole or vent cover may open, thus allowing vapor to escape a tank of the trailer and/or ambient air to enter the tank of the trailer. The valve handle may be actuated to an open position to bleed or release pressure causing the manhole cover or vent cover to close as pressure decreases over time. The hydraulic pump assembly may include a hydraulic pump handle configured and/or positioned on the hydraulic pump assembly to allow or enable a user or operator to increase the pressure within the hydraulic circuit or line when the valve handle is in a closed position. The user or operator may pull the hydraulic pump handle back and up and then push the hydraulic pump handle forward and down, repetitively, (for example, a pumping motion) to cause pressure to increase within the hydraulic circuit or line.
As noted, to cause the manhole cover or vent cover to close, the user or operator may actuate the valve handle to an open position. Typically, such actions may or may not be performed prior to transportation. Further, during transportation, the valve handle may inadvertently move and cause the manhole cover or vent cover to inadvertently open during transportation. As such, the hydraulic vent interlock may prevent the vehicle from operating until the valve handle is actuated to the open position to cause the manhole cover or vent cover to close and until the valve handle is locked in place. In such embodiments, the hydraulic vent interlock may include a pivot bar with a proximal end fixedly or removably attached or connected to the trailer proximate to the hydraulic pump assembly. The pivot bar may be a single solid bar, a hollow bar, a u-shaped bar, a square or rectangular hollow bar, or two bars positioned parallel to one another. The pivot bar may include at least one aperture at a distal end to allow a pin, cam, or detent to pass therethrough. The hydraulic vent interlock may include an interlock bar. The interlock bar may include corresponding mechanical features (for example, apertures, linkages, or other connectors to attach to a pin, cam, or detent) at a proximal end to enable connection of the interlock bar to the pivot bar. The interlock bar may pivot about the pivot bar. In an embodiment, the pivot bar may include a stop or other mechanism to prevent the interlock bar from pivoting past a selected distance. The interlock bar may include a notch or aperture equidistant from the proximal end to the distal end of the interlock bar. In another embodiment, the notch or aperture may be positioned closer to the proximal end or the distal end. In a further embodiment, the notch or aperture may be formed on-site (such as during installation) and, as such, the position of the notch or aperture may vary based on the chosen location of the hydraulic vent interlock.
In an embodiment, the hydraulic vent interlock may include a latch. The latch may be a spring operated latch. The spring operated latch may include two fixed members or plates, a spring positioned between the two fixed members or plates, and the plunger passing through apertures in each of the two fixed members and through the spring. The spring may be fixed to the plunger, for example, via a pin or other mechanism connecting the spring to the rod. The plunger may include a handle or curved portion and a and may correspond to the aperture or notch on the interlock bar. At rest, the spring may hold the plunger in an extended position, holding the plunger, when the interlock bar is in a lowered position, such that the plunger extends through the aperture or notch in the interlock bar. As an operator pulls the handle out and when the interlock bar is in a lowered position, the spring may compress and the plunger may recede from the aperture or notch, allowing a user or operator to lift the interlock bar.
In an embodiment, when the interlock bar is latched or engaged with the latch, the interlock bar may prevent the movement of the valve handle of the hydraulic pump assembly. When the interlock bar is not engaged with the latch, then the interlock bar may pivot about the pivot bar. Further, the hydraulic vent interlock may include a valve or plunger valve in fluid communication with the trailer's brake subsystem. When the interlock bar is in the lowered position, the valve may be depressed or actuated to an open position, while when the interlock bar is in the raised position, the valve may be raised or closed. When the valve is depressed or opened, air may flow to a controller or relay of the trailer brake subsystem causing the brakes to engage or lock. When the valve is raised or close, air may be prevented from flowing to the brake subsystem, thus causing the brakes to disengage or unlock. Thus, while a vent cover or manhole cover is open, the brakes may be locked or engaged, preventing further movement or transportation.
Further, one or more indicators may be positioned throughout the trailer or cab which the trailer is attached to. For example, the interlock bar may include one or more indicators, such as lights, LEDs, sound emitting devices, and/or other indicators. The indicators may activate when the interlock bar is in the raised position (for example, based on signals generated by a sensor or switch positioned on the interlock bar or pivot bar). Other indicators may include an indicator located in the dashboard of the cab of the truck or vehicle, an indicator positioned on a side mirror of the cab of the truck or vehicle, or at other locations within the cab of the truck or vehicle or on the trailer.
Thus, the hydraulic vent interlock described herein may prevent a user or operator from operating a transportation vehicle while a vent cover remains open, preventing unintended release of vapor and sloshing or spilling of asphalt and/or other liquid stored in the trailer. Additionally, the hydraulic vent interlock may prevent unintentional opening of the vent cover during transportation. Further, indicators disposed throughout the transportation vehicle and/or trailer, in addition to locking of the brakes of the trailer and/or vehicle, may ensure that the user or operator is aware of the vent cover being open and able to take action prior to vehicle operation.
The trailer 110 may include a tank, wheels, and a brake subsystem (for example, the trailer brake subsystem). The tank may be configured to store asphalt and/or other liquids, such as hydrocarbon based liquids, contaminated water (such as, including, but not limited to, water from fracking sites and/or other well sites), drilling mud, fertilizer, molasses, syrups, other food products and/or goods, and/or other liquids stored in a non-code trailer as will be understood by one skilled in the art. While the tank illustrated is a tubular shaped tank, it will be understood that other tank types may be utilized along the hydraulic vent interlock 102 and the hydraulic pump assembly 104. In an embodiment, the trailer 110 may be separate from the transportation vehicle 112. In such embodiments, the trailer 110 may attach to the transportation vehicle 112. Such an attachment may include physical/mechanical, electrical, and/or pneumatic or hydraulic attachments. In another embodiment, rather than being separate, the trailer 110 may be integrated with the transportation vehicle 112, as illustrated in
The hydraulic vent interlock may include a pivot bar 124. The pivot bar 124 may be a single solid bar, a hollow bar, a u-shaped bar, a square or rectangular hollow bar, or two bars positioned parallel to one another. The pivot bar 124 may be comprised of metal, such as stainless steel or other types of metal or composites suitable for prolonged exposure to the elements. The proximal end 144 of the pivot bar 124 may be connected to a portion of the trailer 110. The pivot bar 124 may be connected to trailer 110 proximate to or nearby the hydraulic pump assembly 104. Such a connection may be a mechanical and/or removable connection. For example, the proximal end 144 of the pivot bar 124 may be welded to the trailer 110. In another example, the proximal end 144 of the pivot bar 124 may include apertures. In such an example, the trailer 110 may include corresponding apertures or an operator or installer may create corresponding apertures. The pivot bar 124 may be attached to the trailer 110 via bolts and nuts, brackets pins, rivets, and/or other fasteners applied to or inserted through the apertures of the pivot bar 124 and the corresponding apertures of the trailer 110.
The pivot bar 124 may additionally include an aperture 148 at a distal end 146 of the pivot bar 124. A pin 118 may be inserted through the aperture 148 to create a connection point for the interlock bar 116. In another embodiment, a cam, detent, or other mechanism may be utilized to connect the pivot bar 124 to the interlock bar 116. Further, the pivot bar 124 may include one or two stops. For example, the pivot bar 124 may include a first stop. The first stop may be formed from a cutout portion of the pivot bar 124. The first stop may prevent the interlock bar 116 from extending further downwards past the latch 128. The pivot bar 124 may include a second stop. The second stop may be positioned opposite the first stop. Similarly, the second stop may be formed from a cutout portion of the pivot bar 124. In another embodiment, the second stop may include another pin, cam, or detent. The second stop may prevent the interlock bar 116 from extending too far backwards and/or prevent excessive movement of the interlock bar 116 during transportation, were a user or operator to not latch or lock (for example, via latch 128) the interlock bar 116 in place after a loading or offloading operation. In yet another embodiment, the pin 118, cam, or detent may act as the first stop and/or second stop.
The hydraulic vent interlock 102 may include, as noted, an interlock bar 116. The interlock bar 116 may pivot about the pivot bar 124. The range of the pivoting action may be about 90 degrees to about 180 degrees. In an embodiment, the range of the pivoting action may be adjusted, for example, to enable additional visibility of the interlock bar 116 in the raised position and/or easier access to other components described herein. The interlock bar 116, when in a lowered position as illustrated in
The latch 128 may include a spring 126 positioned between two fixed members 152. The two fixed members 152 may include apertures. The latch 128 may include a plunger 129 or a bar with a handle. When the spring 126 is at rest, the spring 126 may hold the plunger 129 in an extended position. Thus, if the interlock bar 116 is in the lowered position and adjacent the latch 128, then the plunger 129 may extend through the aperture 138 of the interlock bar 116 and hold the interlock bar 116 in place. When a user or operator pulls the plunger 129 back, the spring 126 may compress, causing the plunger 129 to clear or no longer extend through the aperture 138. The spring 126 may be held in place relative to the plunger 129 by a pin 150 and/or other mechanism that also passes through and/or attaches to the plunger 129. In another embodiment, other types of latches or mechanisms may be utilized to hold the interlock bar 116 in place, such as a spring hinge, a bolt latch, cam latches, magnetic latches, a toggle latch, hook and eye latches, and/or other latches as will be understood by one skilled in the art. The latch 128 may be attached to or connected to the trailer 110. Such an attachment or connection may be mechanical and/or removable. For example, the latch 128 may be welded to the trailer 110, attached to the trailer 110 via bolts, attached to the trailer 110 via brackets, and/or attached to the trailer 110 via rivets.
In an embodiment, one or more indicators may be included in and/or positioned on the interlock bar 116, such as indicator 142, as illustrated in
The one or more indicators may include lights and/or sound emitting devices. The lights may comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs) and/or incandescent lights. Each of the lights may be configured to use a specific or pre-selected color and lumens to ensure visibility in many conditions (such as bright, dark, day, night, rain, mist, fog, and/or other environmental conditions). Further, such a configuration may be based on a distance that the lights may be visible from, for example, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 25 feet, 30 feet, and/or in a specified direction.
As further illustrated in
In an embodiment, when the interlock bar 116 is in the raised position, the plunger valve 140 may extend and, when the interlock bar 116 is in the lowered position, the plunger valve 140 may retract or depress. In an embodiment, the plunger valve 140 may act as a stop. For example, when the interlock bar 116 is lowered the plunger valve 140 may partially depress. A user or operator may apply an amount of force to completely or substantially completely depress the plunger valve 140. As the force is applied, the interlock bar 116 and/or aperture 138 of the interlock may align with the latch 128. The latch 128 may snap or move into place (for example, with the aperture 138) automatically and/or via user interaction.
In an embodiment, the interlock bar 116 may be a u-shaped or substantially u-shaped bar (for example, as illustrated in
The vehicle brake subsystem 201 may connect to the trailer brake subsystem 200 via glad hands 228, 230. Air may be supplied for various purposes through the glad hands 228, 230. For example, control signals may be sent through the glad hands 228, 230 and/or supply air may be sent through the glad hands 228, 230. In an embodiment, the plunger valve 206 may connect directly to the glad hands and/or to relay valve 204. The plunger valve 206, in such examples, may transmit signals (for example, as air and/or as an electrical signal) through the glad hands 228, 230 or directly to the vehicle brake subsystem 201.
The vehicle brake subsystem 201 may include one or more air or pneumatic reservoirs filled, for example, via a compressor located on the transportation vehicle. For example, the vehicle brake subsystem 201 may include a primary reservoir 210 and a secondary reservoir 212. Each reservoir may provide air to a number of components throughout each subsystem.
For example, as the foot valve 218 and/or the hand valve 216 is actuated or force applied thereto, air may flow through such components to various other components, such as relay valve 224, supply valve 220, and/or front brakes 222A and 222B. The relay valve 224, in response to such a signal, may then provide air to the rear brakes 2226A, 226B, 226C, and 226D, causing the rear brakes 2226A, 226B, 226C, and 226D to engage and stopping the vehicle.
In an embodiment, the trailer brakes 208A, 208B, 208C, and 208D may be controlled via the hand valve 216, the foot valve 218, and/or the plunger valve 206. For example, when the plunger valve 206 is released, then air may be applied to the trailer brakes 208 A, 208B, 208C, and 208D. The air may be supplied via the glad hands 228, 230 and/or the reservoir 202. In another embodiment, the vehicle brake subsystem 201 may be controlled via the plunger valve 206. For example, when the plunger valve 206 is released (for example, thereby generating a signal, such as an amount of air or an electrical signal indicating that the plunger valve 206 is released), then air may be applied to the rear brakes 2226A, 226B, 226C, and 226D and/or front brakes 222A and 222B. In another embodiment, the plunger valve 206 may generate an electrical signal indicating whether the breaks are locked or released to a control system of the transportation vehicle. The transportation vehicle and/or the control system of the transportation vehicle may cause the vehicle brake subsystem 201 and/or the trailer brake subsystem 200 to lock the brakes preventing the transportation vehicle from operating while a vent is open.
As noted, the plunger valve 206 may, in addition to other components positioned throughout the transportation vehicle, control the brakes (for example, trailer brakes 208A, 208B, 208C, and 208D and/or the front brakes 222A and 222B and/or rear brakes 2226A, 226B, 226C, and 226D). Further, as noted, the plunger valve 206 may control the brakes pneumatically. In another example, the plunger valve 206 may control the brakes via electrical signal. In yet another example, another component, such as a switch or sensor, may control the brakes.
In other embodiments, rather than or in addition to the plunger valve 206 indicating that the brakes should lock or engage, another sensor or device may be positioned to indicate to the vehicle brake subsystem 201 and/or trailer brake subsystem 200 that the brakes should engage, as the vent cover is open. Such sensors may sense various factors, such as whether the interlock bar is covering the sensor, whether a selected amount of illumination is detected, whether a switch corresponding to the interlock bar is flipped, and/or whether power is supplied to one or more indicators positioned through the system.
As used herein, “signal communication” refers to electric communication such as hard wiring two components together or wireless communication for remote monitoring and control/operation, as understood by those skilled in the art. For example, wireless communication may be Wi-Fi®, Bluetooth®, ZigBee, cellular wireless communication, satellite communication, or forms of near field communications. In addition, signal communication may include one or more intermediate controllers or relays disposed between elements that are in signal communication with one another.
As noted, the controller 302 may include instructions stored in the memory 306. The instructions may include instructions 308 to determine an interlock bar position. In such an embodiment, the controller 302 may receive signals indicating the position of the interlock bar from one or more of a switch 316 and/or sensor 318. For example, the interlock bar and pivot bar may each include a contact. When the interlock bar pivots up and away from the latch to a raised position, the contact of the interlock bar may touch the contact of the pivot bar. When the two contacts touch, a circuit may be formed. The circuit may include a power source and/one or more indicators. Further, an input of the controller 302 may be included in the circuit. Thus, once a positive amount of power is applied to the circuit, then the controller 302 may detect that power (for example, the power indicating that the interlock bar is in a raised position). In such examples, the absence of power may indicate that the interlock bar is in the lowered position. In another embodiment, a sensor 318 may detect some aspect or characteristic associated with the interlock bar, and, based on that detection, the controller 302 may determine the position of the interlock bar.
The instructions may include instructions 310 to activate or deactivate one or more indicators 320A, 320B, and up to 320N based on the determined position of the interlock bar. The controller 302 may send signals (for example, signals indicating a state that the indicators 320A, 320B, and up to 320N should proceed to) and/or power to the indicators 320A, 320B, and up to 320N to activate when the interlock bar is in the raised position and deactivate when the interlock bar is in the lowered position.
The instructions may include instructions 312 to lock or unlock the vehicle brakes 324 and/or trailer brakes 322, based on the determined position of the interlock bar. As described, a pneumatic signal may be generated via a plunger valve to indicate that the vehicle brakes 324 and/or trailer brakes 322 should engage or lock. In another embodiment, engagement or locking of the vehicle brakes 324 and/or trailer brakes 322 may be determined based on the determined position of the interlock bar (such a determination described above in relation to instructions 308).
At block 402, a user or operator may connect a pivot bar to a trailer. The user may bolt, weld, and/or fasten the pivot bar to the trailer. The user or operator may, as indicated via instructions provided in a kit, position the pivot bar a specified distance from the hydraulic pump assembly. In another embodiment, the trailer may include markers or indicators to note where the pivot bar is to be installed.
At block 404, a user or operator may connect an interlock bar to the pivot bar. In an embodiment, the pivot bar and interlock bar may be delivered in a kit. In a further embodiment, the pivot bar and interlock bar may come in the kit pre-assembled. Thus, the user or operator, in such an embodiment, may install the pivot bar and interlock bar simultaneously. In another embodiment, the pivot bar and interlock bar may come unassembled. As such, the user or operator may connect the interlock bar to the pivot bar. The interlock bar may snap onto the pivot bar. In another embodiment, the interlock bar may be fastened to the pivot bar.
At block 406, once the user or operator has connected the interlock bar to the pivot bar, then the user or operator may connect a plunger valve to the trailer and to the trailer's brake subsystem. The plunger valve may include attached pneumatic hoses or lines. The lines may terminate with male connectors. The male connectors may correspond to female connectors positioned on the relay and/or other components of the trailer's brake subsystem or, in some embodiments, the vehicle's brake subsystem. Further, the plunger valve may be positioned on the trailer such that the plunger valve is located below the interlock bar and, when the interlock bar is in a lowered position, the interlock bar depresses the plunger valve.
At block 408, a user or operator may attach a spring operated latch to the trailer. The spring operated latch may be attached to the trailer at a predetermined location at a predetermined distance from the pivot bar and interlock bar. The spring operated latch may be positioned such that, when the interlock bar is lowered, an aperture of the interlock bar aligns with a plunger of the spring operated latch.
At block 410, a user or operator may attach one of one or more indicators to one or more preselected location, such as on the interlock bar, at selected locations on the trailer, and/or at selected locations on the transportation vehicle. In another embodiment, a sensor and/or switch associated with the interlock bar and/or pivot bar may be installed and connected to the dashboard or control system of the transportation vehicle. The sensor and/or switch may be directly (for example, hardwired) or indirectly (for example, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RFID) connected to the dashboard and/or control system. At block 412, the user or operator may determine if another indicator is to be added (for example, additional indicators are included in the kit). If so, the user or operator may install the additional indicators, otherwise, at block 414, the user or operator may move or actuate the interlock bar to the lowered position and lock the interlock bar via the spring operated latch.
At block 502, a user or controller 302 may determine whether an offload operation has been initiated. Such a determination may occur based on the position of an interlock bar, based on opening of a vent cover, and/or based on an input from a computing device or user interface associated with a user or operator, the input indicating that an offload operation is being initiated. If an offload operation has not been initiated, then the user or controller 302, may determine if, at block 516, whether an offload operation has finished or the user or controller 302 may determine whether an offload operation has finished.
At block 504, if the offload operation has been initiated, the user or controller may determine whether the interlock bar is in a lowered position (for example, as indicated based on a signal generated via a sensor, switch, plunger valve, and/or other device). At block 506, if the interlock bar is in the lowered position, then a user may release or disengage a latch from the interlock bar. In an embodiment, the latch may be a spring operated latch. The user may pull a plunger back, causing the spring to compress and the plunger to recede from an aperture of the interlock bar. After such an action the interlock bar may move to the raised position. At block 508, the user may raise the interlock bar to the raised position. Such an action may cause the vehicle and/or trailer brakes to lock and a valve handle to unlock (for example, the valve handle may be actuatable, as the interlock bar is no longer adjacent to the valve handle, preventing movement of the valve handle). At block 510, the user may actuate the hydraulic valve via the valve handle to a closed position. The closed position may prevent pressure release, allowing pressure to build in an associate hydraulic line. At block 512, the user may actuate the hydraulic pump assembly via the hydraulic pump handle, thus building pressure within the hydraulic line. Once a specified pressure is achieved, the vent cover or manhole may open. At block 514, the user may begin offloading the payload (for example, asphalt and/or other liquids), as ambient air may now enter the trailer preventing implosion or damage due to gas buildup within the trailer.
As noted, at block 516, the user or controller may determine whether the offload operation has finished or is ongoing. If the offload operation has finished, at block 518, the user or controller may determine whether the interlock bar is in the raised position (for example, as indicated based on a signal generated via a sensor, switch, plunger valve, and/or other device). At block 520, the user may actuate the hydraulic valve to an open position, thus releasing the pressure within the hydraulic line and causing the vent cover to close. At block 522, the user may lower the interlock bar to a lowered position, causing the plunger valve to be depressed and thereby unlock or disengage the vehicle and/or trailer's brakes. At block 524, the user may pull back the plunger of the spring operated latch until the interlock bar is aligned thereto. Once alignment is achieved, the user may release the plunger and the spring may force the plunger into the extended position, such that the plunger extends through the aperture of the interlock bar, thus locking the interlock bar, as well as the valve handle, in place.
The present application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional Application No. 18/378,760, filed Oct. 11, 2023, titled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A HYDRAULIC VENT INTERLOCK,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/478,052, filed Dec. 30, 2022, titled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A HYDRAULIC VENT INTERLOCK,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
In the drawings and specification, several embodiments of systems and methods to activate indicators have been disclosed, and although specific terms are employed, the terms are used in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Embodiments of systems and methods have been described in considerable detail with specific reference to the illustrated embodiments. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes may be made within the spirit and scope of the embodiments of systems and methods as described in the foregoing specification, and such modifications and changes are to be considered equivalents and part of this disclosure.
The present application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional application Ser. No. 18/378,760, filed Oct. 11, 2023, titled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A HYDRAULIC VENT INTERLOCK,” which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/478,052, filed Dec. 30, 2022, titled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A HYDRAULIC VENT INTERLOCK,” the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63478052 | Dec 2022 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 18378760 | Oct 2023 | US |
| Child | 18651880 | US |
