Portable tanking system and method

Some embodiments include a method of providing substantially uninterrupted gas service by coupling at least one gas cylinder to a portable tanking assembly. The tanking assembly can include a cart including a rear frame and a coupled carrier frame supported on an axle with wheels. In some embodiments, the carrier frame can include a caged regulation assembly housing at least a portion of a regulation apparatus with an upstream supply end coupled to a downstream delivery end. In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus includes a primary regulator coupled a one relief valve. The relief valve can be coupled to a downstream regulator, coupled to a water column gauge. In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus further includes a delivery valve. In some embodiments, the delivery valve comprises a distribution manifold assembly including a manifold and a plurality of distribution couplers coupled to the manifold.

BACKGROUND

A natural gas distribution system can include a natural gas service line that branches off of a main line in order to serve one or more residential or commercial customers. When a service line is replaced or undergoes maintenance, a natural gas utility company traditionally interrupts the flow of gas to the customer for an extended period (for many hours in most cases). The current total cost to connect an interrupted natural gas supply is in the hundreds of dollars per customer (including relighting the pilots and other various associated tasks) for the typical natural gas utility. An uninterrupted supply of natural gas during a service line replacement or maintenance operation would eliminate some of the reconnection tasks, thereby potentially reducing the total service cost. Furthermore, an uninterrupted supply of natural gas would provide additional value to the utility by improving the customer's perception and overall satisfaction with the utility as a service provider.

SUMMARY

Some embodiments comprise a method of providing substantially uninterrupted gas service during a temporary, primary gas service shutdown, comprising coupling at least one gas cylinder to a portable tanking assembly. The method can include a tanking assembly comprising a cart including a rear frame and a carrier frame coupled to and extending from the rear frame and supported on an axle with wheels, and a caged regulation assembly coupled to the cart. The caged regulation assembly can comprise a protective cage housing at least a portion of a regulation apparatus comprising an upstream supply end coupled to a downstream delivery end, and including a primary regulator coupled to at least one relief valve. The at least one relief valve can be coupled to at least one downstream regulator coupled to a water column gauge that can be coupled to at least one delivery valve. The method can include electrically coupling and grounding the tanking assembly to a customer's gas service line, fluidly coupling at least one downstream valve to a gas service line, coupling a high pressure hose to the gas cylinder, and controlling a downstream flow of gas from the gas cylinder to the gas service line using the regulation apparatus. Further, the method can include monitoring at least one of supply and flow of gas to ensure substantially uninterrupted gas service during the temporary shutdown of the primary gas service.

In some embodiments, the method can comprise a downstream flow of gas that is controlled and monitored using at least one of the high pressure hose coupled to the primary regulator, the relief valve, the downstream regulator, and the water column gauge. In some further embodiments, the regulator can include regulator gauges, and the downstream regulator can include a regulator vent. In some other embodiments, a first valve can be coupled between the relief valve and the downstream regulator.

In some embodiments, the at least one downstream valve can comprise the at least one delivery valve fluidly coupled to the gas service line. In some further embodiments, the at least one delivery valve comprises a distribution manifold assembly including a manifold and at least one distribution coupler coupled to the manifold. In some embodiments, the distribution manifold assembly comprises a plurality of couplers coupled to a plurality of gas service lines.

In some embodiments of the method, the rear frame can comprise a first vertical support and a second vertical support, and the carrier frame can comprise a first side and a second side. Further, the rear frame can be positioned substantially centered on the axle so that the first vertical support and the second vertical support are substantially equidistant from the axial center of the axle, and the carrier frame can be positioned on the axle substantially off-center so that the first side is positioned substantially further from the axial center of the axle than the second side.

Some embodiments of the invention include a portable gas delivery system comprising a cart including a rear frame comprising a first vertical support and a second vertical support and a carrier frame extending from the rear frame and supported on an axle with wheels. In some embodiments, the carrier frame is coupled to and extends from the rear frame and can comprise a first side comprising a plurality of first braces, and a second side comprising a plurality of second braces. Some embodiments include a caged regulation assembly coupled to the cart. The caged regulation assembly can comprise a protective cage housing at least a portion of a regulation apparatus comprising an upstream supply end coupled to a downstream delivery end. In some embodiments, the protective cage comprises at least one hinged door coupled to a main cage, and can comprise a mesh portion to allow air to flow through the protective cage.

In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus includes a primary regulator coupled to at least one relief valve. In some embodiments, the at least one relief valve is coupled to the at least one downstream regulator, which is coupled to a water column gauge.

In some embodiments, the rear frame is positioned substantially centered on the axle so that the first vertical support and the second vertical support are substantially equidistant from the axial center of the axle. The first side can comprise the first braces coupled to and extending substantially perpendicular from the first vertical support to couple with a first front support, and the second side can comprise the second braces coupled to and extending substantially perpendicular from the rear frame to couple with a second front support.

Some embodiments include a portable gas delivery system with a carrier frame that is positioned on the axle substantially off-center so that the first side is positioned substantially further from the axial center of the axle than the second side. In some embodiments, the caged regulation assembly is coupled to the second side. In some further embodiments, a majority of the caged regulation assembly is positioned over the axle.

In some embodiments, the cart further includes a flat base, and the first front support and the second front support are coupled to the flat base on substantially opposite sides. In some further embodiments, the first side further comprises a first thigh section coupled to the first front support and a second thigh section coupled to the second front support, and the first thigh section extends and couples with a first calf section, and the second thigh section extends and couples with a second calf section. The first calf section and the second calf section can be positioned are opposite corners of the flat base each extending substantially vertically from the flat base.

Some embodiments include at least one relief valve coupled to a primary regulator on the downstream delivery end side of the primary regulator. Further, the at least one relief valve can be coupled to the at least one downstream regulator on the upstream supply end side of the at least at least one downstream regulator. In some embodiments, the water column gauge is coupled to the downstream regulator on the downstream delivery end side of the downstream regulator.

In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus further comprises a downstream delivery end that includes at least one delivery valve coupled adjacent to the downstream delivery end side of the water column gauge. In some embodiments, the delivery valve comprises a distribution manifold assembly including a manifold and a plurality of distribution couplers coupled to the manifold, and the plurality of distribution couplers configured and arranged to delivery natural gas to a plurality of customers.

Some embodiments include a gas delivery system including a cart that comprises at least one deployable stabilizer foot. The stabilizer foot can be deployed to a deployed position or retracted to a retracted position. In some further embodiments, the cart further includes a toggle clamp coupled to a toggle mechanism. The toggle mechanism can be configured and arranged to be actuate the toggle clamp to hold and secure the caged regulation assembly. Some embodiments include a toggle mechanism that is configured and arranged to actuate the toggle clamp to release the caged regulation assembly from the second side of the carrier frame.

In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus further includes a high pressure hose coupled to the upstream supply side of the primary regulator. Some embodiments include the caged regulation assembly with a coupled grounding strap coupled to a grounding rod.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Some embodiments of the invention include a portable tanking system10capable of providing a substantially uninterrupted service to natural gas customers15when a natural gas service line17undergoes replacement, or maintenance. In this instance, the portable tanking system10can provide a substantially uninterrupted service to residential or commercial natural gas customers15located in a building or structure, such as a residence, a factory, an office building, a store or mall, a hospital, or a school. In some embodiments, the natural gas customer15can include a building or structure that is substantially fixed and non-mobile. In other embodiments, the building or structure can be substantially mobile, for example, a mobile home or office, or a recreational vehicle. Some embodiments of the invention provide a portable tanking system10capable of providing a substantially uninterrupted service to more than one natural gas customer15at substantially the same time. For example, in some embodiments, a portable tanking system10can be capable of providing a substantially uninterrupted service to two natural gas customers15at substantially the same time.

In some embodiments of the invention, a substantially uninterrupted service can include a briefly disrupted flow of natural gas that does not result in the need for pilot light re-ignition. In some further embodiments of the invention, a substantially uninterrupted service can include a change in the pressure and/or flow of natural gas that does not result in the need for pilot light re-ignition. In all other embodiments, the portable tanking system10can be capable of providing a substantially uninterrupted service to natural gas customers15, eliminating the need for pilot light re-ignition during and after coupling of the assembly10with a natural gas service line17.

In some embodiments, a gas service line17can be fluidly coupled with one or more natural gas meters (such as gas meters601a,601b,601c,601d, or gas meters602a,602b,602c,602ddepicted inFIG. 6). In some other embodiments, the portable tanking system10can be coupled with the natural gas service line17downstream of the natural gas meter601a,601b,601c,601d,602a,602b,602c,602d. In some embodiments, a downstream sensor and/or a smart grid network node can monitor the volume of compressed natural gas supplied by the portable tanking system10.

Some embodiments provide a portable tanking system10that can be easily transferred from one location to another (i.e., it is substantially mobile for transport to a work location, and can also be moved while at the work location). Some embodiments of the invention include a portable tanking system10that comprises a regulation apparatus100that is portable. For example, in some embodiments, a regulation apparatus100can be coupled with a mobile natural gas supply (e.g., a natural gas cylinder40) to form a portable tanking system10. Further, in some embodiments, the regulation apparatus100can be made portable by installation within a protective cage180to form a caged regulation assembly20that can be coupled to a mobile transportation carrier. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A-1C, some embodiments can include a cart30coupled with a caged regulation assembly20and carrying at least one natural gas tank40. As shown inFIG. 1A-1C, illustrating a front perspective, front and side views of a portable tanking system10according to at least one embodiment of the invention, the system10can include a caged regulation assembly20coupled to a cart30that includes wheels34coupled to an axle35. In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10includes a natural gas tank40coupled to the cart30with retaining straps32. In some embodiments of the invention, the caged regulation assembly20can be repeatedly mounted and decoupled from the portable tanking system10to facilitate installation, transportation and storage.

FIG. 1Bis a side perspective view of a portable tanking system10, andFIG. 1Cis a front perspective view of a portable tanking system10according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, in some embodiments, one or more downstream valves170can exit the caged regulation assembly20from a generally bottom location, extending out and away from the portable tanking system10, generally parallel to the axle35. In some embodiments, the wheels34can be semi-pneumatic wheels. Some embodiments of the invention utilize wheels34with a weight capacity of 250 lbs. In some alternative embodiments, the wheels34can be solid, non-pneumatic wheels. In some embodiments, the wheels34can accommodate a higher weight capacity.

Referring toFIG. 1B, some embodiments of the invention include a high pressure hose110. In some embodiments, the high pressure hose110can be fluidly coupled to at least one source of natural gas. For example, in some embodiments, the high pressure hose110can be coupled to a compressed natural gas cylinder40. In some embodiments, the high pressure hose110can be coupled to the portable tanking system10via the caged regulation assembly20for storage and/or during transportation to a job site.

Some embodiments of the invention include one or more features that can contribute to the safety, utility and ergonomics of the portable tanking system. For example, referring toFIG. 1C, in some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include a grounding strap135. In some embodiments, as shown inFIG. 4A, the portable tanking system10can include a grounding strap135coupled to a grounding rod130.FIG. 7is a perspective view of a ground rod130and a ground strap135according to one embodiment of the invention. The ground rod130as shown can include a steel rod including a tapered end. In some embodiments, the rod130can also include a generally T-shaped handle. In some embodiments, the grounding strap135can include an insulating covering such as a ground braid. In some other embodiments, the grounding strap135also can include electrical lugs including screw holes for coupling to the t-shaped handle of the rod130. In some embodiments, just prior to, and during use of the portable tanking system10, a user can deploy the grounding rod130coupled to the grounding strap135to provide an electrical grounding of a natural gas pipe, valve, regulator or other component coupled to the residential or commercial natural gas supply equipment. In some embodiments, the grounding strap135can be electrically coupled to the portable tanking system10. In some embodiments, at least some portion of the grounding strap135can be coupled to the caged regulation assembly20. As depicted inFIG. 4A, in some embodiments, the grounding rod130can be coupled to the caged regulation assembly20, and configured to allow a user to detach and reattach it from and to the cart30. In other embodiments, the grounding rod130can be stored on some other part of the portable tanking system10generally accessible to a user.

Some embodiments can include other safety, utility and ergonomic features. For example, as shown inFIGS. 1A and 1B, some embodiments of the cart30can include a handle50that is positioned generally parallel and inwardly angled towards the axle35of the cart30, and angled generally away from a user. As shown, in some embodiments, the handle50can include a generally rod or tubular-shaped substantially horizontal bar to facilitate grasping and holding by a user. In other embodiments, the handle50can be a conventional generally rectangular or square-shaped handle (not shown). In some embodiments, the handle50can be coupled to each side of the rear frame300with supports55. In some embodiments as illustrated, the supports55can be angled inward (i.e. towards the center of the axle35of the cart30). This architecture facilitates a user rotating and moving the system10, enabling the user to maneuver the portable tanking system10in a confined space, and to orient the system10by rotating the portable tanking system10on its wheels34.

In some embodiments, when a user wishes to rotate the portable tanking system10, the user can grasp the handle50, and pivot the portable tanking system10using the wheels34. In this instance, the user can tip the portable tanking system10to release weight from the wheels34and maneuver the system10by rotating the system10in a clockwise, or counter-clockwise direction. In some embodiments, when a user wishes to move the portable tanking system10to a new location, the user can grasp the handle50, and pivot the portable tanking system10using the wheels34to move the system10forward or backward by applying a force to the handle50to move the system10to a desired location.

Some embodiments of the invention include one or more features that can contribute to the safety and utility of the portable tanking system10. For example, the compressed natural gas cylinder40can be coupled to the cart30using at least one strap32. In some embodiments, the cylinder40can be secured by two straps32, one placed around the cylinder40at a substantially central location, and a further strap32securing the cylinder40at a substantially upper location. In some embodiments, the straps32can include conventional fasteners, or a conventional lock and release mechanism to allow swift coupling and release of the cylinder40(not shown). In some further embodiments, the cylinder40can be coupled to the cart30using a conventional gate and latching mechanism (not shown). In some embodiments, the gate can be pivoted open to allow removal of the compressed natural gas cylinder40. In some other embodiments, the cylinder40can be coupled to the cart30using a conventional U-shaped bar or U-bolts (not shown). In some further embodiments, the cylinder40can be coupled to the cart30using a conventional pull-type toggle clamp (not shown).

As shown in at leastFIGS. 1A-1C, the cylinder40can be supported at its base by a substantially flat base30aportion of the cart30. In some alternative embodiments, the flat base30aof the cart30can be larger or smaller than that shown so as to accommodate various sizes of compressed natural gas cylinders40, or a plurality of cylinders40.

In some embodiments, the cart30shown carrying a natural gas cylinder40inFIGS. 1A-1C and 2A-2B, and without a cylinder40inFIGS. 2C and 2D, can include a rear frame300comprising a first vertical support305aand a second vertical support305b. In some embodiments, the cart30can include a set of three rear braces including a lower rear brace310, a middle rear brace320, and an upper rear brace330. In some embodiments, the braces310,320,330can be generally equally spaced and can extend generally horizontally between and coupled to the vertical supports305a,305b, and can be generally parallel to the axle35. In some embodiments, the rear frame300can also be coupled to the flat base30ausing at least one lower support bar. For example, as illustrated inFIGS. 2A-2B, and 2D-2E, the rear frame300can comprise a first lower support333acoupled to the first vertical support305aand extending inwardly to couple with one corner of the flat base30a, and a second lower support333bcoupled to the first vertical support305a, and extending inwardly to couple with an opposite corner of the flat base30a. In some embodiments, the first vertical support305aand the second vertical support305bare positioned substantially equidistant from the axial center of the axle so that the rear frame300is generally centrally positioned on the axle35.

Some embodiments of the invention include the cart30comprising the rear frame300coupled to a carrier frame306. In some embodiments, the carrier frame306can extend from the rear frame300and function to support and cradle at least one natural gas cylinder40. Further, in some embodiments, the carrier frame306can include a first side307aand a second side307b, each of which can function to support a caged regulation assembly20. For example, in some embodiments, the cart30can include a carrier frame306that can include a series of side braces extending from each vertical supports305a,305bof the rear frame300. The side braces can be positioned generally equally spaced, and substantially perpendicular along the length of the vertical supports305a,305b, extending away from the rear frame300. For example, in some embodiments, the first side307acan comprise a first lower side brace340acoupled to and extending from the first vertical support305a, and a coupled first central side brace350acoupled to and extending from the first vertical support305a, and a coupled first upper side brace360acoupled to and extending from the first vertical support305a.

In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus100can be secured to the caged regulation assembly20. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 4A, in some embodiments, the regulation apparatus100can be secured to the caged regulation assembly20using one or more clamps173. In some other embodiments, further clamps173can be used and coupled with other locations of the caged regulation assembly20. In other embodiments, alternative fastening mechanisms can be used.

In some further embodiments, the caged regulation assembly20can be secured to the cart30. In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10includes a mount60to which the caged regulation assembly20can be slidably mounted. In some embodiments, the mount60can comprise a square frame including a substantially horizontal bar coupled to at least some portion of the cart30using two vertical bars. For example, in some embodiments, the mount60can be coupled to the upper side brace360bof the second side307bof the carrier frame306(seeFIG. 2B) by coupling the two vertical bars to the second upper side brace360bof the carrier frame306. In some other embodiments, the mount60can be coupled to other portions of the cart30, including for example the first side of the carrier frame307a, or to at least some portion of the rear frame300. Further, as shown inFIG. 1A, 2B-2D, some embodiments include a pull toggle clamp25that can be actuated to hold and secure the caged regulation assembly20to the cart30. The pull toggle clamp25is coupled to a toggle mechanism27. The toggle mechanism27can be mounted to some portion of the cart30, such as the central cross-bar28which can extend between the central side braces350a,350bof the carrier frame306(see for exampleFIG. 2B, as well as the illustrations inFIGS. 2C-2Dthat show the cart30without an installed natural gas cylinder40).

In some embodiments of the invention, the caged regulation assembly20can be repeatedly mounted to or decoupled from the portable tanking system10to facilitate installation, transportation and storage. For example in some embodiments, the caged regulation assembly20can be repeatedly mounted to or decoupled from the mount60positioned on the second side307bof the carrier frame306. In other embodiments, alternative fastening mechanisms can be used. For example, the pull toggle clamp25can, in some embodiments, be a conventional toggle clamp. In some other embodiments, the caged regulation assembly20can be secured to the cart30using a system of conventional pins and sockets. For instance, some embodiments can include a cart30with conventional pins configured and arranged to engage conventional sockets on the caged regulation assembly20(not shown). In some other embodiments, the cart30can include a system of conventional slides or posts that can be used to reversibly mount the caged regulation assembly20(not shown).

In some embodiments, the first lower side brace340a, the first central side brace350a, and the first upper side brace360can each be coupled to a first front support308a. Moreover, the first front support308acan be positioned coupled to the flat base30aat one end adjacent to one side of the flat base, and can be extend from the flat base30asubstantially parallel with the first and second vertical supports305a,305b, coupling with the first upper side brace360at an opposite end of the flat base30a. In some embodiments, the second side307bof the carrier frame306can include a further series of braces extending from the rear frame300and coupling with a second front support308bof the carrier frame306. For example, the second front support308bcan be positioned substantially parallel to the first front support308a, and can be coupled to the flat base30aon an opposite side to the first front support308a. A coupled second lower side brace340bcan extend from the second vertical support305bof the rear frame300and couple with the second front support308bof the carrier frame306. Further, a coupled second central side brace350b, and a coupled second upper side brace360b, can extend from the second vertical support305bof the rear frame300, and couple with the second front support308bof the carrier frame306in some embodiments.

In some embodiments, the second side braces340b,350b,360bof the second side307bof the carrier frame306can be coupled to the rear braces310,320,330of the rear frame300at some inward distance from the second vertical support305b(i.e., inwardly positioned along the rear braces310,320,330from the second vertical support305btowards the first vertical support305a). For example, in some embodiments, a coupled second lower side brace340bcan extend from the rear frame300substantially perpendicular from the lower rear brace310, and couple with the second from support308b, and the coupled second central side brace350bcan extend from the rear frame300substantially perpendicular from the middle rear brace320, and couple with the second from support308b. Further, the coupled second upper side brace360bcan extend from the rear frame300substantially perpendicular from the upper rear brace330, and couple with the second from support308b. In some embodiments, by positioning the braces340b,350b,360binward from the second vertical support305b, carrier frame306is positioned on the axle35substantially off-center so that the first side307ais positioned substantially further from the axial center of the axle35than the second side307b, and a gap can be formed between the second front support308band the wheel34. In this embodiment, a substantial portion of a coupled caged regulation assembly20can be positioned over the axle35when attached to the second side307bof the carrier frame306. This architecture can provide stability to the portable tanking system10by assuring a greater proportion of the weight of the portable tanking system10resides over the axle.

In some embodiments, the flat base30acan provide further support to the front supports308a,308b. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 1A, and further illustrated inFIG. 2Eshowing a perspective view of the tanking system10without an installed gas cylinder40, in some embodiments, the cart30can include a first thigh section370aextending from the first front support308a, and a second thigh section370bextending from the second front support308b. Each thigh section370a,370bcan be coupled to the flat base30ausing a substantially vertical calf section coupled to the flat base30aat opposite corners. For example, in some embodiments, the first front support308acan couple with a first calf section380athat can extend from one corner of the flat base30a, and the second thigh section370bcan couple with a second calf section380bthat can extend from an opposite corner to the first calf section380a. In some embodiments, the calf sections380a,380bcan extend a greater or lesser distance from the flat base30a. For example, in some embodiments, the calf sections380a,380bcan comprise a longer length than illustrated, and can couple with shorter thigh sections370a,370b. In some other embodiments, the calf sections380a,380bcan comprise a shorter length than illustrated, and can couple with longer thigh sections370a,370b. In some other embodiments, the thigh sections370a,370bcan extend to couple with the flat base30adirectly (i.e., without the use of coupled calf sections380a,380b).

Some embodiments of the invention include additional features that can contribute to the safety and utility of the portable tanking system10. In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can utilize an integrated mechanical stabilizer assembly. For example,FIG. 2Ais a perspective view of a portable tanking system with stabilizer foot37deployed in a deployed position36aaccording to one embodiment of the invention.FIGS. 2C and 2Dillustrate front and rear views of the portable tanking system10without an installed gas cylinder, and provide further views of the stabilizer foot37in a retracted position36b. In accordance with some embodiments, the cart30can include at least one stabilizer foot37that can be moved from a deployed position36ato a retracted position36b, or vice-versa. In some embodiments, a user can actuate and extend the stabilizer foot37using a grip37bto mechanically extend the foot shaft37ato a deployed position36b. In this instance, the foot shaft37acan move within one or more guides positioned on the cart30. For example, the shaft37acan move within an upper foot guide325and a lower foot guide315that are coupled to at least one of the braces310,320,330. As illustrated inFIG. 2B, in some embodiments, the upper foot guide325can be coupled to the middle front brace320, and the lower foot guide315can be coupled to the lower front brace310.

In some embodiments, a user can actuate and extend the stabilizer foot37to a position36ato provide stability and/or a braking action. For example, in some embodiments, a user can retract the release mount38to allow movement of the stabilizer foot37, and extend the stabilizer foot37to a position36a. Further, in some embodiments, the user can actuate the release mount38to allow movement of the stabilizer foot37, and retract the stabilizer foot37to a position36b. In some further embodiments, a user can actuate and retract the stabilizer foot37to a position36ato allow the cart30to be maneuvered (i.e., to be rotated and/or to be moved to another position). For example,FIG. 2Bis a perspective view of a portable tanking system10with stabilizer foot37retracted to a position36baccording to one embodiment of the invention. As an example, following transportation of the portable tanking system10to a location, a user can extend the stabilizer foot37to a position36ajust prior to parking the portable tanking system10. The user can extend the stabilizer foot37from the retracted position36ato a deployed position36bwhen the portable tanking system10is stationary, in order to hinder, or to substantially prevent further movement of the assembly10.

In some embodiments, the stabilizer foot37can include an enlarged end (e.g., a ground pad37c) to increase the surface area for contact with a surface. In some other embodiments, the end of the stabilizer foot37can include a coating or covering. For example, in some embodiments, the stabilizer foot37can include a zinc coating. In some other embodiments, the end of the stabilizer foot37can include other coatings or covers to increase wear resistance, and/or corrosion resistance. In some embodiments, the stabilizer foot37can include a coating or covering to further increase traction or stability (for example, a rubber-based coating or covering).

As shown inFIG. 2B, in some embodiments, the stabilizer foot37can be retracted to a position36b. As depicted inFIG. 2A, in some embodiments, just prior to movement of the portable tanking system10, a user can actuate the stabilizer foot37from a deployed position36bto a retracted position36a. In this instance, the stabilizer foot37initially in a position36b, can move away from a ground surface, and that can be positioned substantially away from the ground surface to a refracted position36bas illustrated inFIG. 2B. While in this position, a user can proceed to move the portable tanking system10without resistance caused by a coupling of the stabilizer ground pad37cwith a ground surface. In some embodiments, a user can again operate the stabilizer foot37to a deployed position36ato further hinder, or substantially prevent movement of the portable tanking system10.

As illustrated thus far inFIGS. 1A-1C and 2B, the caged regulation assembly kit10can include a single compressed natural gas cylinder40. In some other embodiments, the caged regulation assembly kit10can be configured to carry more than one conventional gas cylinder40(not shown). For example, in some embodiments, the cart30can be configured with more than one conventional bay in order to accommodate one than one gas cylinder40(not shown). In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can be fluidly coupled to the regulation apparatus100using a conventional cylinder of a size that is smaller or larger than the gas cylinder40shown inFIGS. 1A-1C and 2B.

In some embodiments, the gas cylinder40can include a safety cap45designed to protect the gas cylinder40valve during transportation, storage, or while in use. In some embodiments, the safety cap45includes a convention security or anti-tamper device such as a safety pin (not shown). In some embodiments, the safety pin can include a conventional wire, chain, lanyard or leash in order to prevent loss of the safety pin (not shown). Furthermore, in some embodiments, the safety cap45can include a conventional wire, chain, lanyard or leash in order to prevent loss of the safety cap45upon removal from the gas cylinder40(not shown).

In some embodiments, the safety cap45can be present during loading of the gas cylinder40into the cart30, during storage of the portable tanking assembly10, or during transporting of the assembly10to a natural gas customer15. In some embodiments, just prior to use of the portable tanking assembly10, the safety cap45can be removed. In some embodiments, following removal of the safety cap45, the high pressure hose110can be fluidly coupled with the gas cylinder40.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a caged regulation assembly20include a detachable safety cage with a lock. As shown inFIGS. 3A and 3B, in some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include a regulation apparatus100installed within a caged regulation assembly20. In some embodiments, the regulation apparatus100can include a series of fittings, safety devices and other components arranged to provide natural gas from an upstream supply end101and capable of coupling with a natural gas meter601a-601d,602a-602dvia a downstream delivery side102. In some embodiments, the series of fittings, safety devices and other components of the regulation apparatus100are configured and arranged from the upstream supply end101to the downstream delivery side102substantially within the caged regulation assembly20. In some embodiments, some components of the apparatus100can at least partially extend outside of the assembly20, including, but not limited to the high pressure hose110coupled to the upstream supply end101, and the downstream delivery end102that can comprise downstream valves170or a distribution manifold assembly700.

In some alternate embodiments of the invention, the portable tanking system10can include more than one caged regulation assembly20. For example, some embodiments of the invention include a portable tanking system10that can include a plurality of caged regulation assemblies20of different sizes. For instance, some embodiments can include an assembly20designed to contain a 0.5 lb regulation apparatus100, and a further assembly20designed to contain a 2 lb regulation apparatus100. In some embodiments, at least two caged regulation assemblies20can be mounted on one side of the cart30(either on of the sides307a,307b), whereas in some alternate embodiments, at least two caged regulation assemblies20can be mounted on opposite sides of the cart30(one assembly20on each of the sides307a,307b).

In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include at least one caged regulation assembly20with regulation apparatus100configured to deliver a supply of natural gas at different pressures. For example, in some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include a single caged regulation assembly20housing at least two low pressure regulators capable of supplying natural gas under at least two different pressures. In some other embodiments, the regulation apparatus100can include a plurality of caged regulation assemblies20including at least two low pressure regulators capable of supplying natural gas to a customer15with at least two different pressures.

FIG. 3Ashows a front view of a caged regulation assembly20, andFIG. 3Bshows a front perspective view of the caged regulation assembly20according to one embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, the cage180comprises a main cage103that can comprise a generally rectangular five-sided box frame that includes a hinged access door105coupled to the main cage103using hinges106. The hinged access door105can include at least one lock108to provide safety and security access to the regulation apparatus100. In some embodiments, the cage180can include handles107for transportation and mobility. For example,FIG. 4Ashows a perspective view of a caged regulation assembly20according to one embodiment of the invention showing the hinged access door105and the cage handles107, andFIGS. 4B and 4C, show rear and side perspective views of a caged regulation assembly20showing the lock108according to one embodiment of the invention.

In some embodiments, each side of the cage180including the five sides of the main cage103and the door105can include a mesh portion105a. The mesh portion105acan enable ventilation of the cage180, allowing flow of air past the enclosed regulation apparatus100. The use of the mesh portion105aallows visual inspection of the apparatus100, while also allowing air to flow through the cage180to dilute leaked flammable gases (e.g., natural gas).

In some embodiments, at least one conventional lifting eyelet90can be including in the portable tanking system10in order to facilitate lifting by a crane or hoist (seeFIGS. 2C and 2D). The lifting eyelet90can be coupled to the cart in a generally central location, including for example by coupling to a generally central position on the upper central brace335(seeFIGS. 2B and 2C).

Referring toFIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, some embodiments of the invention can include various substantially flat, or substantially rectangular or square-shaped components and materials. For example, in some embodiments, one or more components of the portable tanking system10, including, but not limited to the caged regulation assembly20and the cart30, can include one or more bars or rods that are substantially flat, or substantially rectangular or square-shaped. Some embodiments include a solid bar or rod, whereas in some other embodiments, at least one component can include a tubular and/or substantially hollow component to facilitate weight reduction.

In some embodiments, one or more of the fittings, valves or pipes, or other components of the portable tanking system10can comprise iron. For example, in some embodiments, one or more components of the regulation apparatus100may comprise iron, wherein at least one of the fittings, valves or pipes can comprise a schedule40metallic pipe (black or galvanized iron pipe).

In some embodiments, one or more components of the portable tanking system10can include a material that comprises steel, or a related iron composition. For example, in some embodiments, the caged regulation assembly20can comprise a steel frame. Moreover, in some embodiments, one or more components of the cart30can comprise steel. In some embodiments, one or more components of the portable tanking system10, including the caged regulation assembly20, can be assembled using welding. In some other embodiments, one or more components of the portable tanking system10, including the caged regulation assembly20can be assembled and coupled using rivets, bolts, screws, press-fitting, or other fastening mechanisms known in the art.

Some embodiments of the invention can include alternative materials. For example, in some embodiments, at least one component of the portable tanking system10can include a metal other than steel. For example, in some embodiments, one or more aluminum components can be used to at least partially reduce weight. Some embodiments of the portable tanking system10can include non-metallic materials. For example, in some embodiments, one or more components of the caged regulation assembly20or the cart30can include a plastic or other polymeric material, and/or a fiberglass composite.

Some embodiments of the invention can include a material that is powder-coated. For example, some embodiments can include a coating that confers corrosion resistance to one or more iron-coating materials within the portable tanking system10. Other embodiments can include a coating or covering that provides convenience or safety to a user. For example, in some embodiments, one or more components of the portable tanking system10can include a flexible and/or impact, and/or vibration absorbing material. For example, in some embodiments, either one or all of at least some portion of the pull toggle clamp25, the stabilizer foot37, or the handle50can be coated or otherwise covered with an elastomeric material or other polymer material. In some embodiments, the coated or otherwise covered component of the portable tanking system10can provide improved stability, wear and/or corrosion resistance, safety and/or user-comfort. In some other embodiments, the coating can include paint. For example, in some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include a surface at least partially coated with high visibility paint, including, but not limited to an orange paint, a yellow paint and a red paint. In some further embodiments, the paint can include a substantially luminous material suitable for providing increased visibility in low light environments. In some other embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include a surface at least partially coated with an anti-corrosion coating or paint to protect against corrosion.

Referring toFIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 4A-4C and 5A-5C, the various illustrations can include embodiments for delivery of natural gas. In some embodiments, natural gas can comprise predominately methane. In some other embodiments, the natural gas can include at least one of ethane, propane, butane, carbon dioxide, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen sulfide, and other rare gases such as helium, neon, argon or xenon. In some embodiments, the various embodiments of the invention as illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 4A-4Cand5A-5C, can include embodiments for delivery of natural gas with varying composition. Some other embodiments can include embodiments for delivery of fluids other than natural gas, including, but not limited to ethane, butane and propane, or combinations thereof.

In accordance with some embodiments of the invention, a portable tanking system10can be provided to facilitate uninterrupted service to natural gas customers15when a natural gas service line17undergoes replacement, or when a natural gas service line17undergoes maintenance. In some other embodiments, a portable tanking system10can be provided to facilitate uninterrupted service to natural gas customers15when a gas meter set undergoes maintenance.

As described earlier, in some embodiments, a regulation apparatus100can be fitted within a caged regulation assembly20. As illustrated inFIGS. 5A-5C, in some embodiments, the regulation apparatus100can include a system for delivery of natural gas. For example, the regulation apparatus100can include a series of fittings, safety devices and other items capable of coupling with a natural gas meter via an extension. In some embodiments, the apparatus100can include a plurality of components to facilitate safe and controlled transfer of natural gas from a source, such as a compressed natural gas cylinder40, to a natural gas customer15via the downstream valves170.

In some embodiments, the components can include at least a series of pressure regulators, pressure gauges, gas manifolds, valves, gas pipes and pipe connectors, and dust caps, and associated coupling and sealing apparatus. In some other embodiments, the components can include switches, gas sensors, gas alarms and other safety related devices. For example,FIG. 5Ais a perspective view of a regulation apparatus100comprising the upstream supply end101and the downstream delivery end102according to one embodiment of the invention. Further,FIG. 5Bis a front perspective view of a regulation apparatus100comprising the upstream supply end101and the downstream delivery end102according to one embodiment of the invention, andFIG. 5Cis a side perspective view of a regulation apparatus100comprising the upstream supply end101and the downstream delivery end102according to one embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, in some embodiments, the high pressure hose110can be coupled to a primary regulator120on the upstream supply end101side of the apparatus100. The high pressure hose110can include a delivery end113coupled to the regulation apparatus100, and a supply end118including a cylinder coupling116for coupling to a natural gas cylinder40. In some embodiments, the primary regulator120can be an ESAB® Trimline® regulator. Both ESAB® and Trimline® are registered trademarks of ESAB Global and ESAB—North America, entities owned by Colfax Corporation.

In some embodiments, the primary regulator120can be further coupled to a relief valve140via a pipe tee145coupling the downstream delivery end102side of the primary regulator120with the upstream supply end101side of the pipe tee145. For example, in some embodiments, the pipe tee145can be coupled to the primary regulator120at the downstream delivery end102side of the primary regulator120using a pipe nipple145acoupled to a pipe bushing145b. In some embodiments, the relief valve140, and pipe tee145, can be coupled to a first valve190, via a tee193. For example, in some embodiments, the upstream supply end101side of the pipe nipple145ccan be coupled to the downstream delivery end102side of the pipe tee145, and the downstream delivery end102side of the pipe nipple145ccan be coupled to the upstream supply end101side of the tee193. In some embodiments, the relief valve140can include a FISHER® H-202 relief valve. FISHER® is a registered trademark of Fisher Controls International, Inc. In some embodiments, the first valve190can comprise metric fitting sizes. In some other embodiments, the first valve190can comprise non-metric fitting sizes.

In some further embodiments, the first valve190and tee193can be coupled to a downstream regulator150. In some embodiments, the downstream regulator150, can be coupled to a pipe tee158. For example, in some embodiments, downstream delivery end102side of the tee193can couple with the upstream supply end101side of the pipe nipple158a, and the pipe nipple158acan couple with the downstream regulator150. Further, in some embodiments, the pipe tee158can be further coupled to a pipe nipple167by coupling the downstream delivery end102side of the pipe nipple158awith the upstream supply end101side of the pipe nipple167.

In some embodiments, the pipe nipple167can couple to a pipe tee165that is further coupled to a water column gauge160. For example, in some embodiments, the downstream delivery end102side of the pipe nipple167can couple with the upstream supply end101side of the pipe tee165. Further, in some embodiments, the pipe tee165can be coupled to a pipe nipple168. For example, in some embodiments, downstream delivery end102side of the pipe tee165can be coupled with the upstream supply end101side of the pipe nipple168.

In some further embodiments, the nipple168can be coupled to at least one delivery valve400. For example, in some embodiments, the delivery valve400can comprise at least one downstream valve170. For example, in some embodiments, the downstream delivery end102side of the pipe nipple168can coupled to at least one street elbow175via a pipe tee169. Further, the at least elbow175can be coupled to at least one downstream valve170. In some embodiments, all pipe fittings downstream of the primary regulator120(i.e., the upstream supply end101side of the regulation apparatus100) to the inlet of the downstream regulator150(the upstream supply end101side) are schedule80pipe fittings. In some embodiments, all pipe fittings downstream of pipe158are schedule40fittings.

As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, some embodiments can include one or more components designed to monitor natural gas pressure, and one or more components that can actuate based on a natural gas pressure. In some embodiments, valves can be included to provide relief of natural gas pressure. For example, in some embodiments, the regulator120can include regulator gauges125a,125b. In some other embodiments, the downstream regulator150can include a regulator vent155. Other embodiments include a regulator150that includes a conventional burst disc design to protect the downstream components in the event of failure of the primary regulator120.

Referring toFIG. 5C, in some embodiments, the downstream valves170can comprise several components for regulation and flow of natural gas. For example, as illustrated, in some embodiments the valves170can include a pipe nipple176for coupling to a service line17. Moreover, the downstream valves170can include valves178coupled via a union177. In some embodiments, the valves178can include Safe Ball® Lockwing Gas Service Ball Valve manufactured by Jomar® Valve. Safe Ball® and Jomar® are registered trademarks of the Jomar Group.

In some further embodiments, one or more components of the regulation apparatus100can be configured by a semi-permanent screw thread. For example, one or more of the components120,140190,150,160and170can be coupled using threaded fittings at their connection ends. In some further embodiments, one or more components of the regulation apparatus100can include a combination of welded or machined fittings. For example, some embodiments can include one or more components welded together. In other embodiments, one or more components can be machined into a single component (for example to form a machined manifold). In some embodiments, the use of welded and/or machined components can reduce the number of coupling junctions and reduce the size of the regulation apparatus100.

In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10as described and illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, and 5A-5Ccan include a regulation apparatus100that includes downstream valves170. In some embodiments, one or more of the downstream valves170can be fluidly coupled with a natural gas service line17. In some embodiments, one or more of the downstream valves170can be fluidly coupled with more than one natural gas service line17. For example, in some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can provide substantially uninterrupted service to two natural gas customers15when a natural gas service line17undergoes replacement or maintenance.

In some alternative embodiments of the invention, the portable tanking system10can include an auxiliary compressed natural gas cylinder40. In some embodiments, the cart30can be configured with dual bays to accommodate an auxiliary cylinder (not shown). In some other embodiments, one or more monitoring sensors or gauges can be including within the regulation apparatus100to enable a user to monitor a pressure of a primary natural gas supply (e.g provided by a compressed natural gas cylinder40, to enable switching to an auxiliary natural gas supply when the primary supply is depleted). Some embodiments can include visual or audible alarms to warn a user of an approaching depletion of either a primary or auxiliary natural gas supply.

In some embodiments, wheels34can include a weight capacity of 250 lbs or more in order to accommodate a higher weight capacity when using an auxiliary cylinder40. In some embodiments, the wheels34can be solid or non-pneumatic wheels. In some embodiments, the compressed natural gas cylinder40can comprise iron or steel. In some further embodiments, the cylinder40can comprise aluminum. In other embodiments, the cylinder40can comprise a composite material. For example, in some embodiments, the cylinder40can comprise a carbon fiber composite or a glass fiber composite material.

Some embodiments include a cart30with a conventional tool storage system (not shown). For example, in some embodiments, a conventional toolbox can be integrated with, or otherwise coupled to the cart30to serve as storage for tools, probes, grounding rods, bags, and other materials and components known in the art. In some embodiments, a conventional toolbox can be used to store at least one hose used in the hot tanking process. In some other embodiments, hoses can be at least partially accommodated within other portions of the cart30.

In some other embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include more than one set of downstream valves170. For example, the portable tanking system10can include more than one regulation apparatus100each including one set of downstream valves170, and/or as described earlier the system10the portable tanking system10can include more than one caged regulation assembly20.

Some embodiments of the invention provide a portable tanking system10capable of providing a substantially uninterrupted service to more than one natural gas customer15at substantially the same time. In this instance, the portable tanking system10is especially applicable to performing work on apartment buildings and the like. For example, in some embodiments the portable tanking system10can feed more than one customer15of the apartment16a(shown inFIG. 6) by feeding meters601csubstantially simultaneously.

In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can include a distribution manifold assembly700. For example,FIG. 5Dillustrates a distribution manifold assembly700according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, the distribution manifold assembly700can comprise a manifold (steel pipe)710including a first end703and a second end706. The second end706can be closed using a cap740, and the union730, coupled to the first end703that can be used to couple to a natural gas supply. For example, in some embodiments, the first end703can be coupled to at least one of the downstream valves170. In some other embodiments, the distribution manifold assembly700can replace the downstream valves170by coupling directly to the downstream pipe nipple168of the regulation apparatus100. For example, in some embodiments, the downstream delivery end102side of the pipe tee165can be coupled with the upstream supply end101side of the pipe nipple168, and the downstream delivery end102side of the pipe nipple168can coupled with the first end703to provide a supply of natural gas to the manifold710.

In some embodiments, the manifold710can include at least one port720for distribution of natural gas to one or more outlets. For example, in some embodiments, a steel pipe750can be coupled to one or more of the ports720, and can extend from each port720to couple to at least one hose assembly780. Each steel pipe750can be coupled to a ball valve760, and each ball valve60can include a steel pipe (close nipple)770, and a union775. In some embodiments, at least one hose assembly780can be coupled to a ball valve760by coupling connectors783to a union775. Further, each hose assembly780can include at least one distribution coupler785that can be used to couple to a customer's gas supply inlet (e.g., such as gas meters601a-601d). Some embodiments include a plurality of distribution couplers385, where each coupler785can be coupled to a gas supply inlet. Some embodiments of the distribution manifold assembly700can be secured to a wall or structure using at least one pipe hanger790coupled to a threaded hook795.

FIG. 6is a service line17configuration according to one embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a portable tanking system10can be coupled with a customer15service line17of an apartment16a, a duplex apartment16b, or a single structure16c. In some embodiments, the portable tanking system10can be coupled to an apartment16a, a duplex apartment16b, or a single structure16cvia an alternate service line17. For example, as depicted inFIG. 6, in some embodiments, buildings or structures can be served by customer15service line17coupled gas meters601a,601b,601c,601d. In some embodiments, buildings or structures can be served by customer15service line17coupled gas meters601a,601b,601c,601dwhile also being served by alternate service line17coupled gas meters602a,602b,602c,602d.

Some embodiments include methods of providing a substantially uninterrupted supply of natural gas to a building or structure using the portable tanking system10as described and illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, and 5A-5C. For example, in some embodiments, one or more downstream valves170or distribution manifold assemblies700can be coupled with a natural gas supply of a building or structure. For example, in some embodiments, a method of providing a substantially uninterrupted supply of natural gas to a building or structure can include fluidly coupling one or more downstream valves170or distribution manifold assemblies700to one or more customer15service lines17including coupled gas meters601a,601b,601c,601d. In some other embodiments, a method of providing a substantially uninterrupted supply of natural gas to a building or structure can include fluidly coupling one or more downstream valves170or distribution manifold assemblies700to one or more alternate service line17coupled gas meters602a,602b,602c,602d. In some other embodiments, one or more downstream valves170or distribution manifold assemblies700can be fluidly coupled to one or more customer15service line17coupled gas meters601a,601b,601c,601dto deliver natural gas downstream of the meters601a,601b,601c,601d, and one or more downstream valves170or distribution manifold assemblies700can be coupled to one or more alternate service line17coupled gas meters602a,602b,602c,602dto deliver natural gas downstream of the meters602a,602b,602c,602d.

In some embodiments, a method of providing a substantially uninterrupted supply of natural gas to a building or structure using the portable tanking system10as described and illustrated inFIGS. 1A-1C, 2A-2B, 3A-3B, 4A-4C, and 5A-5Ccan include 1). assembling a portable tanking system10, 2). transporting the tanking assembly10to a service location, 3). electrically coupling and grounding the tanking assembly10to a customer15natural gas service line, 4). fluidly coupling at least one delivery valve400comprising either a downstream valve170or a distribution manifold assembly700to the customer15natural gas service line, 5). coupling the high pressure hose110to the compressed natural gas cylinder40, and 6). controlling a downstream flow of natural gas from the compressed natural gas cylinder40to the customer15natural gas service line17using the regulation apparatus100. In some embodiments, the downstream flow of natural gas can be controlled and monitored using at least one of the high pressure hose110coupled to the primary regulator120, the relief valve140, the first valve190, the downstream regulator150, and the water column gauge160. In some embodiments, the water column gauge160can be a Marsh/Bellowfram 0-15 IWC (inches of water column) gauge. Marsh/Bellowfram® is a registered trademark of the Marsh/Bellowfram group of companies. As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, some embodiments of the method can include one or more components designed to regulate the pressure of natural gas pressure. In some embodiments, the regulator120can include regulator gauges125a,125b, and downstream regulator150can include a regulator vent155.