Patent Description:
To pump fluid out of a flow of fluid flowing in one direction or in a direction opposite the one direction, use may be made of two Pitot pumps, thus one pump for each one direction of flow, as disclosed by <CIT>, referred to as Gawne hereinbelow.

A controllable Pitot device according to the preamble of claim <NUM> is known from <CIT>.

The embodiments of the invention include a <NUM> r controllable Pitot device according to claim <NUM> and a method for pumping fluid according to claim <NUM>.

The method and the device for implementing a controllable Pitot device comprise a Pitot nozzle configured to pump fluid out of a flow of fluid. The controllable Pitot device has a nozzle holder <NUM> which is configured to support the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in pivotable adjustment for orientation in angular dispositions. The angular dispositions are relative to a direction of flow of the fluid. The angular dispositions include rotation in a first angular disposition, to pump fluid flowing in a first direction of flow. Likewise, the Pitot nozzle may be rotated in a second angular disposition, to pump fluid flowing in a second direction of flow, which flows in a direction opposite the first direction of flow.

The Pitot nozzle has a fluid ingestion inlet which is immersed in a flow of fluid flowing within the walls of a duct, like in a pipeline for example. The Pitot nozzle pumps fluid out of a flow of fluid flowing within the walls of the duct. The fluid flows in a first direction of flow, and for pumping, the Pitot nozzle is pivotally adjusted in a first angular disposition. In the same manner, still for pumping, the fluid flows in a second direction of flow, which flows opposite the first direction of flow, wherefore the Pitot nozzle is pivotally adjusted in a second angular disposition which is diametrically opposite the first angular disposition.

There is also described a method for pumping fluid using the controllable Pitot device as described above comprising a Pitot nozzle having an immersed fluid ingestion inlet for pumping ingested fluid out of a fluid flowing in a seal chamber of a rotating fluid machine. There is provided a nozzle holder for supporting the Pitot nozzle therein, in controlled pivotable orientation, by rotation thereof in angular disposition, relative to the direction of flow of the fluid. Pumped fluid may be discharged to an exterior of the rotating fluid machine via a fluid discharge opening which is supported by the nozzle holder. The Pitot nozzle may be pivoted into a first angular disposition for pumping fluid out of a flow of fluid flowing in a clockwise direction. Likewise, pivoting the Pitot nozzle into a second angular disposition, which is diametrically opposite the first angular disposition, for pumping fluid out of a flow of fluid flowing in counterclockwise direction. With a rotating fluid machine, a seal plate or endplate closing the seal chamber may be configured as a nozzle holder.

It is noted that the Pitot nozzle may pump fluid out of a seal chamber of a rotating fluid machine which rotates fluid in clockwise or in counterclockwise direction. Therefore, the Pitot nozzle is pivotable in a clockwise direction and in a counterclockwise direction. Furthermore, the nozzle holder supports at least one fluid discharge opening, for discharging fluid ingested by the Pitot nozzle, to an exterior of the controllable Pitot device. It may be said that ingested fluid is discharged to the exterior of the nozzle holder, or to the exterior of the rotating fluid machine, or to the exterior of the endplate, or to exterior of the seal chamber, via a fluid discharge opening.

Pitot pumps are usually operative with one specific direction of flow of fluid. For example, with a rotating fluid machine, fluid may flow either in a clockwise direction or in a counterclockwise direction. Similarly, in a pipe or duct, fluid may flow in one direction along the duct or in a thereto opposite direction of flow. To pump fluid out of a flow of fluid flowing in either one of both directions, Gawne recites two Pitot-like tubes, wherein each one Pitot-like tube has a fluid flow path for one direction of flow of the fluid. Although not shown by Gawne, a conduit for the discharge of fluid has to be coupled to the outlet port of each Pitot-like tube. Hence two conduits are needed, one conduit for each one Pitot-like tube, to receive the fluid discharged for each one direction of flow of the fluid. It is understood that when one Pitot-like tube is operative, the other Pitot-like tube has to be closed or blocked. This necessitates to couple the two Pitot-like tubes to a <NUM>-way selector valve, i.e. a valve with three ports: one port for receiving fluid from each one of the two Pitot-like tubes, and a third port to discharge the pumped fluid out of the <NUM>-way selector valve.

It would therefore be advantageous to provide a device and a method for implementing a controllable Pitot device, where control refers at least to operation with a flow of fluid flowing in one direction or with a flow of fluid flowing in a thereto opposite direction of flow. Furthermore, the controllable Pitot device may have but one fluid ingestion inlet and one fluid discharge outlet, compatible with both directions of flow of the fluid, whereby the use of a <NUM>-way selector valve becomes superfluous.

There is provided a controllable Pitot device operative with a bidirectional flow of fluid, which means operative with a fluid flowing in one direction as well as with a fluid flowing in a direction opposite the one direction, flowing either in a duct or in a rotating fluid machine. The controllable Pitot device may have a Pitot nozzle which forms a bidirectional Pitot pump by being configured with a fluid ingestion inlet and a fluid discharge outlet, and may allow in situ adaptation, from the exterior thereof, to one of both directions of fluid flow. The controllable Pitot device is a mechanical device having a pivotable Pitot nozzle, which may be turned or rotated to orient the fluid ingestion inlet to face the incoming flow of fluid. Then, advantage is taken of the Bernoulli principle and derived Pitot effect to pump ingested fluid for discharge out and to the exterior of the controllable Pitot device.

The Bernoulli principle states that in view of the conservation of energy, in a constant flow of ideal fluid, ignoring gravity, the absolute total pressure is constant, or <MAT> where Ptotal is the absolute total stagnation pressure, Pstatic is the absolute static ambient pressure, Pdynamic is the dynamic pressure ½ ρV<NUM>, ρ is the density of the fluid, and V is the velocity of the fluid.

This means that when a flow of fluid is brought to standstill by impingement on and arrest by an obstacle, the static pressure of the stopped flow of fluid rises up to stagnation pressure, which becomes the absolute total stagnation pressure. Evidently, if Pdynamic = <NUM>, then Pstatic = Ptotal.

The controllable Pitot device is configured to be bidirectional: This means that the device operates when pivotally adjusted to a first angular position for ingestion of fluid flowing in one first direction, and when pivotally adjusted to a second angular position, for ingestion of fluid flowing in the direction opposite the one first direction.

However, the configuration selected for the controllable Pitot device provided an unexpected ability to controllably but reversibly deactivate the pumping function of the bidirectional Pitot nozzle, thereby stopping the pumping of fluid. In other words, the controllable Pitot device may also be pivotally adjusted even in situ, in a third angular disposition wherein the pumping of fluid is reversibly discontinued, i.e. reversibly stopped.

In addition, the flow rate of fluid ingestion, or of flow discharge out of the controllable Pitot device, may be controlled by appropriate pivotal rotational adjustment of the Pitot nozzle. Moreover, the controllable Pitot device may be operated manually in situ, or by remote control, and/or by motorized means.

The controllable Pitot device may have at least one fluid ingestion inlet, at least one fluid discharge outlet, and is bidirectional, thus adjustable for operation with fluid flowing in a first direction of flow or with fluid flowing in a second direction of flow flowing in a direction opposite the first direction of flow. The controllable Pitot device is thus bidirectional.

The controllable Pitot device is controllably adjustable from the exterior thereof, thus from the exterior of the duct, or rotating fluid machine, or the equipment, to which it may be coupled, to:.

Furthermore, the radial orientation of the direction of discharge of the pumped fluid out of the controllable Pitot device may be controllably selected, or adjusted as desired, even after installation and even in situ.

Moreover, if the controllable Pitot device is mistakenly assembled to operate for the wrong direction of flow of fluid, the mistake may be easily corrected, even after installation and in situ. In industry, the stored stock of single-direction-of-flow Pitot pumps may be reduced by half since a bidirectional controllable Pitot device fits both two opposite directions of flow of fluid. This ensues since the controllable Pitot device is configured as a bidirectional pump, thus configured to pump fluid flowing in a first direction of flow and in a second direction of flow flowing in a direction opposite the first direction of flow, as well as, if desired, to pump fluid flowing in one direction of flow.

The controllable Pitot device is thus configured as a controllably adjustable and versatile product.

Also, the drawings are schematic and not to scale, emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Various nonlimiting embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the following description of exemplary embodiments, in conjunction with the figures in which:.

Described hereinbelow is a method for the implementation of embodiments of a product or a device operative as a controllable Pitot device <NUM> for pumping fluid out of a field of flow flowing in a duct of fluid <NUM> or in a rotating fluid machine <NUM>. Hereinbelow, a duct of fluid <NUM> refers also to a casing which is a duct <NUM> wherein fluid flows in a rotating fluid machine <NUM>, as well as to the walls bounding the fluid which flows in a pipe or other conduit of fluid. For a rotating fluid machine <NUM>, such as a pump or a compressor for example, fluid may be pumped out of the seal chamber <NUM>. The term duct <NUM> is not restricted to the shape of the conduit, either straight or arcuate, wherein the fluid flows.

<FIG> is a schematic partial cross-section illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a bidirectional controllable Pitot device <NUM> for pumping fluid which flows in a first direction of flow FL. <FIG> illustrates the same embodiment as shown in <FIG> but after angular pivotal adjustment of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> to a flow of fluid flowing in a second direction OPPD, opposite by <NUM>° to the first direction of flow FL shown in <FIG>. The description hereinbelow refers to fluid flowing in the first direction of flow FL shown in <FIG> which description is also valid in principle with <FIG> for fluid flowing in the second direction of flow OPPD flowing in a direction opposite the first direction of flow FL, say by <NUM>°.

<FIG> and <FIG> depict an exemplary controllable Pitot device <NUM> including a pivotally angularly adjustable Pitot Nozzle <NUM> operative in association with a Pitot nozzle holder <NUM>, or nozzle holder <NUM> for short, which forms a support for the Pitot nozzle.

The pivotable Pitot nozzle <NUM> has the general shape of a right cylinder aligned about a longitudinal axis Nz, and has a portion which forms a hollow Pitot nozzle interior <NUM>, or interior <NUM>. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be divided into three main mutually coupled and sequentially aligned stacked portions. These three portions may include a hollow first fluid intake portion I or immersed portion I, a second tubular portion II, and a third solid portion III. Both the first fluid intake portion I and the second tubular portion II form the hollowed out interior <NUM> for the passage of the ingested fluid therethrough and thereout, when pumping. The second tubular portion II and the third solid portion III extend in aligned sequence away from the first fluid intake portion I along the longitudinal axis Nz.

The bottom of the fluid intake portion I of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be closed by a circular nozzle bottom closure <NUM> which may preferably be disposed in a direction parallel the direction of flow of the fluid. The fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> may be opened adjacent the nozzle bottom closure <NUM> and have a generally rectangular shape, but different geometrical shapes, such as a circular shape for example, may also be practical. A nozzle wall <NUM> rises from the bottom closure <NUM> and may extend further away, out of portion I and along the longitudinal nozzle axis Nz, up to a nozzle top closure <NUM> of the tubular portion II. The nozzle wall <NUM>, the nozzle bottom closure <NUM>, and the top closure <NUM>, delimit the interior <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> and provide a passage for the ingested fluid.

The first fluid intake portion I includes a fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, a back-wall <NUM>, an obstacle <NUM>, and a portion of the hollowed out or tubular interior <NUM>. The fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> which is an opening entered in the nozzle wall <NUM>, may be disposed adjacent the nozzle bottom closure <NUM>, to operate as a fluid entry aperture configured for the intake of incoming fluid. The fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is disposed upstream and diametrically opposite the obstacle <NUM> formed by the back-wall <NUM> portion of the nozzle wall <NUM> on which the incoming fluid impinges. The tubular interior <NUM> extends along the longitudinal axis Nz further away from the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> and into the second tubular portion II of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>.

The second tubular portion II of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> forms most of the length of the nozzle interior <NUM> and includes fluid discharge exit openings <NUM>.

The hollow interior <NUM> of the tubular portion II may include at least two coaxially aligned diametrically opposite open exit openings <NUM>, referred to hereinbelow as aligned openings <NUM> for short, which are opened in the nozzle wall <NUM> perpendicular to the nozzle axis Nz. The exit openings <NUM> may include a first exit opening and a second exit opening, respectively <NUM> and <NUM>, and may be disposed adjacent the nozzle top closure <NUM> which may terminate the tubular hollow interior <NUM>. The exit openings <NUM> may thus be separated apart in diametrically opposed alignment perpendicular the axis Nz of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. A length L of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may stretch from the nozzle bottom closure <NUM> up to the nozzle top closure <NUM>. The length L may be adapted to the configuration and dimensions of the duct <NUM> or the machine out of which fluid is pumped.

The third solid portion III of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> which extends further away from the nozzle top closure <NUM> along the longitudinal axis Nz, may include at least one seal groove <NUM>, a swivel plate <NUM>, and a pointer <NUM>.

At least one seal groove <NUM>, which extends further away from the nozzle top closure <NUM> along the longitudinal axis Nz, may be cut in the Pitot nozzle <NUM> perpendicular the longitudinal axis Nz to receive therein a seal <NUM> such as an O-Ring™ for example. The seal <NUM> is configured to prevent leaks of fluid out of the here axially disposed support bore <NUM> and to the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>, as described hereinbelow with respect to the nozzle holder <NUM>. The word exterior EXT is meant to indicate the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>, the exterior EXT of a duct <NUM>, the exterior EXT of a nozzle holder <NUM>, and the exterior EXT of a rotating fluid machine <NUM>.

The swivel plate <NUM> may be disposed further away along the longitudinal nozzle axis Nz, from the at least one seal groove <NUM> in the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, and may be accessible from the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. Finally, an indicator or pointer <NUM> may be affixed to the swivel plate <NUM> to indicate a direction, such as the direction of orientation of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>. The pointer <NUM> may thus indicate and allow detection of the angular disposition direction of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, by sight and/or by touch. The pointer <NUM>, which may protrude out of the holder head <NUM> of the nozzle holder <NUM>, along the axis Nz, is accessible from the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>, and permits pivoting or rotation of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> about the thereof longitudinal axis Nz. Hence, the pointer <NUM> is configured for ease of orientation of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> manually, by motorized means and by remote control. The pointer <NUM> may protrude as a ridge surfacing out and away from the swivel plate <NUM>, or may be recessed therein as a diametric channel or recess <NUM> shown in <FIG>, or as a portion of a diametrical channel, which is not shown. Hence, the angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be adjusted by access to a portion thereof, such as the pointer <NUM> for example, which protrudes to the exterior EXT, out of the nozzle holder <NUM>.

The nozzle holder <NUM>, which is operative in association with the Pitot nozzle <NUM> of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>, is described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

The nozzle holder <NUM> may be configured to hold and support the Pitot nozzle <NUM> therein in pivotal adjustable rotatable angular disposition. The nozzle holder <NUM> is a mechanical structure for holding, supporting and retaining the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in pivotal freedom of motion, and is operative for the disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> relative to the direction of flow of fluid flowing in a conduit or duct of fluid <NUM>.

The nozzle holder <NUM> may be configured either as an independent machine part which forms a Pitot nozzle support structure <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, or in a configuration integral with and embedded into a portion of a duct wall <NUM> into which the nozzle holder <NUM> is formed as an embedded Pitot nozzle support <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a Pitot nozzle embedded support <NUM> shown as a generally cylindrical bore formed in the wall <NUM> of a duct <NUM>. An embedded support <NUM> may be replaced by a support structure <NUM> when the former is not practical. The Pitot nozzle support structure <NUM> and the Pitot nozzle embedded support <NUM> are referred to hereinbelow for short as, respectively, support structure <NUM> and embedded support <NUM>.

The support structure <NUM> may have a base <NUM> which may be conformed to be affixed to an exterior duct surface <NUM> of the duct <NUM> out of which fluid is pumped. A seal <NUM>, such as an O-ring ™ for example, may be disposed in a seal groove <NUM> cut in the support structure <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. Alternatively, the seal groove <NUM> may be cut in the duct <NUM>. In both cases, the seal <NUM> is disposed intermediate the duct <NUM> and the nozzle holder <NUM> to prevent leaks out of the duct <NUM> into which the Pitot nozzle <NUM> penetrates. Alternatively, other means well known in the art may prevent leaks out of the interface between the duct <NUM> and the nozzle holder <NUM>. For example, a threaded screw coupling <NUM> configured to fasten the nozzle holder <NUM> to the duct <NUM> may be suitably treated to become sealed in appropriate orientation and prevent the passage of fluid therethrough.

The nozzle holder <NUM> may have a circular cross-sectional shape, or another desired or functionally advantageous cross-sectional geometrical shape. The nozzle holder <NUM> may have an axially disposed support bore <NUM> which is configured to receive, support, and retain the Pitot nozzle <NUM> coaxially therein in a pivotal degree of freedom of motion about the longitudinal axis Nz. Furthermore, the nozzle holder <NUM> in the form of a support structure <NUM> may be fixedly attached to the duct <NUM> by being integrally embedded in such a duct <NUM>, or be coupled thereto by mechanical fastening means well known in the art. Examples of mechanical fastening means may include one or more of a threaded screw coupling <NUM>, bolts, screws, strap bands, and shackles. A nozzle holder <NUM> configured as an integrally embedded structure <NUM> is described hereinbelow with reference to <FIG>.

The nozzle holder <NUM> further has a holder head <NUM> wherein a possibly circular recessed arrest surface <NUM> may be provided in concentricity with the axially disposed support bore which passes throughout the nozzle holder from the holder head <NUM> to the base of the nozzle holder <NUM>. The arrest surface <NUM> may support the swivel plate <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> and prevent axial displacement thereof further into the flow of fluid. The swivel plate <NUM> may have a diameter D, smaller than a diameter Φ of the arrest surface <NUM> but exceeding the diameter d of the axially disposed support bore <NUM>, and may be appropriately pivotally seated on the arrest recess <NUM>. The at least one seal <NUM> mounted in the seal groove <NUM> in the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is the seal which prevents the escape of fluid along the axially disposed support bore <NUM> and to the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>.

In addition, the stationary nozzle holder <NUM> supports a to the nozzle axis Nz perpendicularly disposed radial fluid discharge outlet <NUM>, accommodated to receive fluid exiting via one out of the two exit openings <NUM> when both the fluid discharge outlet <NUM> and one uncovered open exit opening <NUM> are disposed in mutual fluid communication. Typically, a pipe or a tube such as a conduit of fluid, or a closed-loop duct <NUM> shown in <FIG>, may be coupled to the radial fluid discharge outlet <NUM> to channel fluid discharged thereout away and to the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts the controllable Pitot device <NUM> after pivotal adjustment thereof to a flow of fluid which flows in a second direction opposite by <NUM>° to the first direction of flow FL shown in <FIG>. The principle of operation of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> remains the same for both directions of flow of the fluid: ingested incoming fluid will penetrate through the ingestion inlet <NUM> and be pumped out, via the interior <NUM>, through one out of the two exit openings <NUM>, to the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> via the unobstructed radially open fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. As shown in both <FIG> and <FIG>, one out of the two exit openings <NUM> may be pivotally aligned in fluid communication with the unobstructed open stationary fluid discharge outlet <NUM> provided in the nozzle holder <NUM>. Thereby, for operation in a field of flow flowing in the second direction OPPD, ingested fluid that is pumped via the relevant open exit opening <NUM> will be discharged through the unobstructed open stationary fluid discharge outlet <NUM> and thus be discharged to the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG>, to pump fluid flowing in an opposite direction of flow OPPD, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is adjustably pivoted or turned by <NUM>° about the longitudinal axis Nz relative to the angular disposition shown in <FIG>. Thereby, the first exit opening <NUM> is blocked, or covered, by the nozzle holder <NUM> but ingested fluid may flow out of the open second exit opening <NUM> to the exterior EXT, via the unobstructed open fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

Before operation, the controllable Pitot device <NUM> has to be coupled to the duct <NUM> out of which fluid is to be pumped. If the duct of fluid <NUM> cannot provide, or cannot be configured as a practical embedded support <NUM>, then a support structure <NUM> may be mounted on the duct. First, an aperture <NUM>, shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, has to be opened in the duct <NUM> for the passage therethrough of at least the immersed portion I of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. Thereafter, the axially disposed support bore <NUM> of the support structure <NUM> is coaxially centered on the aperture <NUM>, and the nozzle holder <NUM> is fixedly attached to the duct <NUM> in sealed coupling to prevent leaks of fluid. Mechanical coupling means and sealing techniques are well known in the art and do not have to be described. In turn, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is introduced via the axially disposed support bore <NUM> until properly disposed for operation. This means that the swivel plate <NUM> is seated on the arrest recess <NUM>. Evidently, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> must have an appropriate length L for the fluid intake portion I to be disposed out of the boundary layer of the flow of fluid and preferably in or close to the area of highest velocity of flow of the fluid. The length L may be selected as the cumulative length of the fluid intake portion I and of the tubular portion II of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, or less. Finally, the pointer <NUM> is adjusted according to the direction of the flow of fluid, and the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is locked in position relative to the nozzle holder <NUM>, for example by a lock plate <NUM> shown in <FIG>, and if desired, by locking wire, or by other securing means well known in the art. Thereby, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> will be locked in angular disposition against shocks and vibration and against axial retrieval out of the nozzle holder <NUM>.

In operation, incoming fluid flowing in the duct <NUM> impinges on the fluid intake portion I of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. Fluid enters the immersed ingestion inlet <NUM>, thus enters the fluid intake portion I, and is arrested by the thereto diametrically opposite obstacle <NUM> formed by the portion of the nozzle wall <NUM>, or back-wall <NUM>, disposed opposite the ingestion inlet <NUM>, on which the fluid impinges. The obstacle <NUM> stops the incoming fluid to a zero velocity of fluid, and creates a zone of fluid at stagnation pressure ZSP. As indicated in <FIG>, the zone of fluid at stagnation pressure ZSP may extend between the obstacle <NUM> and the dashed line upstream of the obstacle. It is the higher pressure of stagnation of the zone ZPS which pumps the ingested fluid away from the obstacle <NUM> and into the interior <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>.

The pumped fluid is directed via the interior <NUM> towards the two diametrically aligned opposite exit openings <NUM> entered in the nozzle wall <NUM>, which aligned exits <NUM> are disposed further away from the obstacle <NUM> along the longitudinal axis Nz of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. Next, pumped fluid may exit out of one of both exit openings <NUM>. In <FIG>, fluid flows in the first direction of flow FL, exits out of the uncovered open first exit opening <NUM> since the second exit opening <NUM> is blocked, or closed, or covered, by the nozzle holder <NUM>, and is discharged via the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>, to the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. In <FIG>, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is shown after pivotal adjustment thereof to ingest fluid flowing in the opposite direction of flow OPPD, which is opposite by <NUM>° to the first direction of flow FL. Hence, fluid from the second direction of flow OPPD will exit out of the now uncovered open second exit opening <NUM> since the first exit opening <NUM> is covered close by the nozzle holder <NUM>.

In <FIG> and <FIG>, fluid exiting out of an uncovered open opening <NUM> is discharged via an unobstructed open fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Pivotal adjustment in angular disposition of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> for operation with a first direction of flow of the fluid, or for operation with a second direction of flow of the fluid which is opposite the first direction of flow is simple: It suffices to rotate the Pitot nozzle <NUM> by <NUM>°, possibly by use of the pointer <NUM> which is accessible from the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>.

The operation of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> is thus the same for a flow of fluid flowing in a first direction of flow FL and for a flow of fluid flowing in a second direction OPPD. Hence, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> forms a bidirectional Pitot pump by being configured to pump fluid flowing in one of the fluid flowing in the first direction of flow FL and the fluid flowing in the second direction of flow OPPD.

<FIG> depict schematic cross-sections taken along the plane A - A of <FIG> in which the nozzle holder <NUM> is stationary relative to the possible angular dispositions of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> which may be pivoted or turned, or rotated, about the axis Nz. The unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> shown in <FIG>, is aligned downstream of the incoming first direction of flow of fluid FL. Incoming fluid FL is assumed to flow from left to right as shown in <FIG>, but the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is not shown in <FIG>. The four successive <FIG> illustrate various dispositions of the diametrically opposite first exit opening <NUM> and second exit opening <NUM> of the pivotable Pitot nozzle <NUM>. In <FIG>, each successive Fig. is turned clockwise CW by <NUM>° respective to a previous Fig. to exemplify the capabilities of adjustable control of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> relative to the direction of flow of the fluid FL. Clockwise CW and counterclockwise CCW directions are depicted in, respectively, <FIG>. The Pitot nozzle <NUM>, which is supported by the nozzle holder <NUM>, is thus pivotable in a clockwise CW direction and in a counterclockwise CCW direction.

<FIG> illustrates the direction of the incoming flow of fluid, the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, the nozzle holder <NUM>, the first exit opening <NUM>, and the second exit opening <NUM>. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> is disposed with the ingestion inlet <NUM>, not shown, facing the incoming flow of fluid while FL. The second exit opening <NUM> is covered by the nozzle holder <NUM>, wherein covered means impassable to fluid flow, or blocked, or closed for the passage of fluid, thus preventing fluid communication. However, the first exit opening <NUM> is open, thus uncovered, and is disposed in fluid communication in alignment with the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. In such an angular disposition, fluid may be pumped. Covered and uncovered dispositions of the two diametrically aligned exit openings <NUM> is reversible by rotation of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> relative to the nozzle holder <NUM>. Fluid incoming into the ingestion inlet <NUM>, passes via the interior <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, then out of the first uncovered open exit opening <NUM>, and exits to the exterior EXT through the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has been turned clockwise CW by <NUM>° relative to <FIG>: both the first exit opening <NUM> and the second exit opening <NUM> are covered by the nozzle holder <NUM>, hence fluid is prevented from being discharged out of the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. In such an angular disposition, the fluid pumping operation of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> is stopped, but reversibly so. In <FIG>, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has been turned clockwise CW by <NUM>° relative to <FIG>: ingested and pumped fluid may exit out of the unobstructed open discharge outlet <NUM> since both the uncovered second exit opening <NUM> and the fluid discharge outlet <NUM> are aligned in fluid communication. In <FIG>, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has been turned clockwise CW by <NUM>° relative to <FIG>: both the first exit opening <NUM> and the second exit opening <NUM> are covered close by the nozzle holder <NUM>. Therefore, fluid cannot be discharged out of the fluid discharge outlet <NUM> and the pumping operation of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> is reversibly stopped.

<FIG> thus illustrate dispositions of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> which may be adjusted to allow pumping of fluid, and dispositions wherein the pumping of fluid is intentionally prevented. Evidently, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be further turned clockwise CW and the same sequence described with respect to <FIG> may be repeated. Instead of turning the Pitot nozzle <NUM> clockwise CW, the same results will be achieved and the same process will be performed by turning the Pitot nozzle <NUM> counterclockwise CCW. It is noted that the description related to <FIG> is also valid for a fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> pivoted by <NUM>° for a flow of fluid flowing in the opposite direction OPPD, thus from right to left as shown in <FIG>. It is noted that the angular disposition of the two exit openings <NUM> relative to the angular disposition of the flow-facing fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is irrelevant to the pumping capability of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>, assuming that the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> is appropriately oriented in fluid communication with the uncovered exit openings <NUM>.

It may thus be said that the Pitot nozzle <NUM> supports two aligned diametrically opposed open fluid exit openings <NUM>, and is pivotably rotatable and adjustable in selected angular dispositions. Hence, there is at least one angular disposition in which an open exit opening <NUM> is uncovered for free passage therethrough of fluid. Similarly, there is at least another one open angular disposition in which an open exit opening <NUM> is covered close to prevent passage of fluid therethrough. From an uncovered open exit opening <NUM>, fluid is ejected to the exterior EXT via an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Thereby, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may pump fluid by adjustment thereof in an angular disposition which establishes fluid communication between the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, the uncovered opening EXO, and an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. It is noted that the angular disposition of the uncovered open exit opening <NUM> is dependent from the angular disposition of the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

<FIG> refers to the ability to use the controllable Pitot device <NUM> for the control of the flow rate of discharge of fluid which is pumped thereout. Like <FIG> depicts a cross-section taken along the plane A - A of <FIG>. It is assumed that the direction of flow of the fluid FL, from left to right shown in <FIG>, is the same as that shown in <FIG>. An exemplary angular disposition of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is shown by dashed lines.

<FIG> illustrates the angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> which may be used to control the flow rate of discharge of fluid which is pumped out by the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. To this end, the relative mutual size of the exit openings <NUM> and of the discharge outlet(s) <NUM> may be selected according to the desired characteristics of flow rate of ingestion, or of discharge of fluid. <FIG> depicts an exemplary pivoted angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> relative to the nozzle holder <NUM> showing a certain degree of overlap between the exit opening <NUM> and the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. In such a pivoted angular disposition, fluid is discharged out of the controlled Pitot device <NUM> at a certain flow rate relative to the mutual degree of alignment, or of fluid communication, of the exit opening <NUM> and of the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Various different radial angular dispositions of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> will decrease or increase the discharge of fluid which may vary from zero fluid discharge flow, as shown in <FIG>, to a maximum fluid discharge flow as shown in <FIG>, as occurs at aligned overlap of the related uncovered exit opening <NUM> or <NUM>, and the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> is thus pivotally adjustable to control a rate of fluid discharge flow of the ingested fluid, which rate of discharge may span from a zero rate of fluid discharge flow to a maximal fluid discharge flow rate.

The controllable Pitot device <NUM> thus allows to adjust the angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> to control the volumetric flow rates of pumped fluid. Such rates may extend from a maximal volumetric flow rate to a minimal volumetric flow rate which is nil. Evidently, the maximal volumetric flow rate is obtained when both an uncovered free opening <NUM> and an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> are aligned in the same angular disposition, and in fluid communication. The angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> thus controls the operation of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>.

A lock plate <NUM> is a device used to prevent retrieval of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> out of the nozzle holder <NUM> and to reversibly lock the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in selected angular disposition, despite shocks and vibrations. The lock plate <NUM> may be fixedly coupled to the nozzle holder <NUM>, i.e. the support structure <NUM> or the embedded support <NUM>. Mechanical fasteners <NUM> fixing the lock plate <NUM> to the nozzle holder <NUM> may be unfastened to change the angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. If desired, the mechanical fasteners <NUM> may be secured by safety wire or other means.

<FIG> illustrates a top elevation of the pointer <NUM> mounted on the swivel plate <NUM>, both of which pertain to the third solid portion III of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, and are accessible from the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. The lock plate <NUM> as attached to the nozzle holder <NUM> into which the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is properly seated, is depicted in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. The pointer <NUM> which is manually or otherwise pivotable, may be configured to indicate the orientation of the immersed fluid ingestion intake <NUM>, and a mark <NUM>, disposed on the swivel plate <NUM>, may indicate the angular orientation of the two aligned open exit openings <NUM>. In <FIG> the pointer <NUM> may protrude out of the surface of the swivel plate <NUM> and in <FIG>, the pointer <NUM> is formed as a slot <NUM> wherein a tongue <NUM> of the lock plate <NUM> is bent into the slot <NUM> and the mark <NUM> may be disposed on the swivel plate <NUM>.

A lock plate <NUM> may thus be provided to conform to the shape of the pointer <NUM> to lock the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in discrete angular dispositions. A lock plate <NUM> of generally rectangular or other desired shape, may have a slot <NUM>, or a tongue <NUM>, or a pointer-conforming shape <NUM> which is configured to conform to the type of pointer <NUM> supported by the swivel plate <NUM>. The lock plate <NUM> may be mounted over the swivel plate <NUM> and secured for example to the nozzle holder <NUM> by mechanical fasteners <NUM> to lock the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in discrete angular depositions, and to prevent retrieval thereof out of the nozzle holder <NUM>. A mark <NUM> disposed on the swivel plate <NUM> may indicate the direction of an exit opening <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the lock plate <NUM> is fixedly retained to the nozzle holder <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. A longitudinal slot <NUM> is opened in the lock plate <NUM> to fixedly retain the protruding pointer <NUM>, and thus the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, in one out of the two possible angular dispositions. A mark <NUM> may indicate the direction of orientation of one of the two aligned open exit openings <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the cross-like slot <NUM> of the lock plate <NUM> is configured to permit to lock the protruding pointer <NUM> in for example, four discrete radial angular dispositions, i.e. two pumping dispositions and two pumping preventing dispositions for example. The arrowhead shape marked <NUM> indicates the direction of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a star-like protruding pointer <NUM> lockable in a plurality of various angular orientations by use of a thereto conforming lock plate <NUM> having a pointer-conforming shape <NUM> configured as a star-like opening. A circular protruding or recessed shape on the pointer <NUM> may indicate the direction of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a swivel plate <NUM> having a lock-plate <NUM> with a tongue <NUM> which is bent into in the longitudinal slot <NUM>. The slot <NUM> is also the pointer <NUM>. The lock-plate <NUM> for securing the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in place may thus have a tongue <NUM>, which is bent out of the plane of the lock plate <NUM>, to be inserted into the longitudinal slot <NUM> to prevent pivotal rotation of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. The angular direction indicated by the slot <NUM> may be clearly seen and may even be detectable by touch for ease of checking of the adjustment of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. The swivel plate <NUM> may carry a mark <NUM> pointing to the angular orientation of one of the two aligned open exit openings <NUM>, such as a notch or a painted sign for example.

The angular orientation of the stationary fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is supported for example by the support structure <NUM>, is controllable and may be selected as desired. In other words, the radial angular orientation of the two aligned fluid exit openings <NUM> and the radial angular orientation of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> may be may be mutually adapted to accommodate a desired radial angular orientation of the one fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Such a feature may be advantageous during installation in, or when changes are made to the existing layout of an industrial operation floor. The nozzle holder <NUM> may be produced with one unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is directed in a selected angular orientation or may be produced with a plurality of fluid discharge outlets <NUM>. The latter permits to select out of the plurality of discharge outlets, the one fluid discharge outlet <NUM> to remain open, or unobstructed and operative while the remaining fluid discharge outlets <NUM> may be reversibly plugged, or obstructed, or otherwise hermetically sealed. Evidently, the selected radial angular orientation of a specific fluid discharge outlet <NUM> requires a thereto appropriately adapted Pitot nozzle <NUM> having an appropriate relative angular orientation of the two aligned open exit openings <NUM> and of the ingestion inlet <NUM>. In other words, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be configured to comply with a selected angular orientation of the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a modified rendition of the cross-section shown in <FIG> to illustrate another exemplary embodiment of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. In contrast to <FIG>, in <FIG> the nozzle holder <NUM> is shown to support a distribution of a plurality of fluid discharge outlets <NUM>, for example four fluid discharge outlets, mutually separated apart in radial angular orientation. The distribution of four fluid discharge outlets <NUM> has been selected for the sake of ease of illustration, but less or more discharge outlets <NUM> may be chosen. The four fluid discharge outlets <NUM> may point to the North, the East, the South and the West and are marked respectively as 48N, 48E, <NUM>, and 48W. In <FIG>, three out of the four fluid discharge outlets <NUM>, for example 48N, <NUM>, and 48W, are obstructed, possibly reversibly so, or hermetically sealed by a plug <NUM> for example, to obstruct the passage of fluid. Practically, the result is equivalent to that obtained with the configuration of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> also shown in <FIG>. The remaining selected open fluid discharge outlet 48E is unobstructed and open for operation in alignment with the two exit openings <NUM>. The ability to select a desired angular orientation for a conduit carrying fluid ejected out of a discharge outlet <NUM> is advantageous in industry and allows flexibility of installation in an operational factory environment. One may consider that a conduit for carrying ejected fluid to the exterior EXT may need to be oriented into a specific angular direction either to facilitate support thereof and/or to facilitate passage thereof through a cramped environment.

In <FIG>, the flow of fluid FL incoming from the West W enters the to the West W oriented fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>. Each one out of the three fluid discharge outlets <NUM> oriented to the North N, the South S, and the West W, is obstructed in hermetical sealing by a plug <NUM> to obstruct the passage of fluid. The two diametrically opposite exit openings <NUM> open in the Pitot nozzle <NUM> are aligned in a West W to East E orientation with the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet open to the East 48E. Ingested fluid thus enters from the West W via the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, is pumped to the uncovered second exit opening <NUM> and is ejected therefrom to the East E via the unobstructed open fluid discharge outlet 48E, as shown in <FIG>.

In <FIG>, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has been rotated by <NUM>° relative to the nozzle holder <NUM> of <FIG>. The fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is now oriented to the East E to operate with fluid flowing from East E to West W, opposite the first direction of flow FL shown in <FIG>. Fluid flowing in the opposite direction of flow OPPD thus enters the ingestion inlet <NUM> from the East E. Each one out of the three fluid discharge outlets <NUM> oriented to the North N, the South S, and the West W, is obstructed in hermetical sealing by a plug <NUM> to block the passage of fluid. The unobstructed discharge outlet to the East 48E is open and the two diametrically opposite exit openings <NUM> open in the Pitot nozzle <NUM> are aligned therewith in an East E to West W orientation. Ingested fluid enters the ingestion inlet <NUM> from the East E, is pumped to the first uncovered exit opening <NUM> and is ejected thereout to the East E via the unobstructed discharge opening 48E.

It is noted that although not shown in the Figs. , ingested fluid may also be discharged to the West W. For both examples related to <FIG>, to discharge fluid to the West W via the discharge opening 48W, it suffices to remove the hermetically sealing obstructing plug <NUM> out of the discharge opening 48W and use the same or another plug <NUM> to obstruct the opening 48E.

In <FIG>, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has been rotated by <NUM>° relative to the nozzle holder <NUM> of <FIG>. The fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is oriented to the West W to operate with the flow of fluid flowing in the first direction of flow FL, from West W to East E. Fluid thus enters the ingestion inlet <NUM> from the West W in the first direction of flow FL. Each one out of the three fluid discharge outlets <NUM> oriented to the West W, the North N, and the East E, is hermetically sealed obstructed by a plug <NUM> to block the passage of fluid. The unobstructed discharge outlet to the South <NUM> is open and the two diametrically opposite open exit openings <NUM> are uncovered and are aligned therewith in a North N to South S orientation. Ingested fluid thus enters from the West W, is pumped to the uncovered second exit opening <NUM> and is ejected thereout via the unobstructed discharge opening <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has been rotated by <NUM>° relative to the direction of flow of the flow FL shown in <FIG>. The fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is oriented to the East E and fluid flowing in the opposite direction of flow OPPD thus enters the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> from the East E. Each one out of the three fluid discharge outlets <NUM> oriented to the West W, North N, and the East E, is hermetically sealed obstructed by a plug <NUM> to block the passage of fluid. The discharge outlet <NUM> to the South <NUM> is unobstructed open, and the two diametrically opposite exit openings <NUM> open in the Pitot nozzle <NUM> are aligned therewith in a North N to South S orientation. Ingested fluid thus enters from the East E, is pumped to the first exit opening <NUM>, and is ejected thereout via the unobstructed discharge outlet <NUM>.

It is noted that although not shown in the Figs. , ingested fluid may also be discharged to the North N. For both examples related to <FIG>, to discharge fluid to the North N via the discharge opening 48N, it suffices to remove the hermetically sealing obstructing plug <NUM> out of the discharge opening 48N and use the same or another plug <NUM> to obstruct the opening <NUM>.

It may thus be said that the Pitot nozzle <NUM> supports two aligned diametrically opposed open fluid exit openings <NUM>, and is pivotably rotatable in selected angular dispositions. Hence, there is at least one angular disposition in which an open exit opening <NUM> is uncovered for free passage therethrough of fluid. Similarly, there is at least one angular disposition in which an open exit opening <NUM> is covered close to prevent passage of fluid therethrough. From an uncovered open exit opening <NUM>, fluid is discharged to the exterior EXT via an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is supported by the nozzle holder <NUM>. Thereby, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may pump fluid by adjustment thereof in an angular disposition which establishes fluid communication between the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, an uncovered opening <NUM>, and an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

Since the angular disposition of the aligned fluid exit openings <NUM> may be the same or be different from the angular disposition of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, it may be said that the angular disposition of the aligned fluid exit openings <NUM> is independent from the angular disposition of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>. For pumping fluid, this call for an appropriate configuration of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, for which must care for fluid communication from the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, via an uncovered open fluid exit opening <NUM>, to an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

<FIG> showed that the nozzle holder <NUM> may support a distribution of a plurality of fluid discharge outlets <NUM>, which distribution has reversibly and hermetically obstructed fluid discharge outlets <NUM>, but for one discharge outlet <NUM> which is a reversibly unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Obviously, for pumping fluid, the angular disposition of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> independent from the angular disposition of the two aligned open fluid discharge openings <NUM> which have to provide fluid communication with an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

With the examples illustrated in relation to <FIG>, the selection of an angular orientation of the fluid discharge outlet <NUM> may be easily performed. First, the chosen fluid discharge outlet <NUM> with the selected radial angular orientation is unplugged to become unobstructed, and the remaining fluid discharge outlet(s) is/are plugged obstructed. Next, securing wire and the lock plate <NUM> are removed. Then, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be pivoted and the lock plate <NUM> is fixed over the Pitot nozzle <NUM> and may be secured. Else, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be pulled out of the nozzle holder <NUM>, or support structure <NUM>, or embedded support <NUM>, and be replaced by a Pitot nozzle having exit openings <NUM> matching the radial orientation of the selected unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Finally, the lock plate <NUM> is fixed over the Pitot nozzle <NUM> and may be secured.

It is thus understood that the nozzle holder <NUM> has to support an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> having an angular disposition which is independent from the angular disposition of the ingestion inlet <NUM>. Evidently, to pump fluid, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has to be configured to allow fluid communication from the ingestion inlet <NUM>, via one uncovered open exit opening <NUM>, and out of the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

The controllable Pitot device <NUM> may be configured to discharge fluid in one or in more different radial orientations, and not necessarily disposed in symmetrical radial distribution. The controllable Pitot device <NUM> is thus controllable in the sense that the radial orientation of the direction of discharge of fluid thereout may be selected as desired.

<FIG> illustrates an exemplary manner of coupling a controllable Pitot device <NUM> to a duct <NUM>. For example, at least one strap band <NUM> may be used to clamp the base <NUM> of the of support structure <NUM> to the duct <NUM> around which the strap band(s) <NUM> may be stretched by one or more mechanical fastener <NUM>, such as (a) bolt(s) and nut(s) assembly. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> preferably has an appropriate length L for the fluid intake portion I to be disposed out of boundary layers of the fluid and preferably in or close to the area of highest velocity of flow of the fluid. The length L is adaptable to the dimensions of the duct <NUM> out of which fluid is pumped.

An exemplary embodiment of a nozzle holder <NUM> configured as an embedded Pitot nozzle support <NUM> for use with a rotating fluid machine <NUM> is illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> is a schematic representation of an exemplary rotating fluid machine <NUM> shown as a pump <NUM> for example. Fluid enters the pump <NUM> via a pump intake IN, and exit thereout through a pump outlet OUT. The pump <NUM> has a shaft <NUM> driven by a motor <NUM> rotating an impeller <NUM>, and is enclosed by pump walls <NUM>. An endplate <NUM> closes a seal chamber <NUM>. In <FIG> the shaft <NUM> is collinear with an axis X. The rotating fluid machine <NUM> may rotate fluid in a clockwise CW direction as shown in <FIG>, or in a counterclockwise CCW direction of flow shown in <FIG>. For example, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be embedded in the endplate <NUM> of the seal chamber <NUM>, in a radial disposition <NUM> which is radial relative to the axis X or in a parallel disposition <NUM> which is parallel relative to the axis X. In both dispositions shown in <FIG>, the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is immersed in the flow of fluid. The Pitot nozzle holder <NUM> formed as a support structure <NUM> may become superfluous when an embedded support <NUM> is practical. The nozzle holder <NUM> may thus be configured either as a support structure <NUM> or as an embedded support <NUM>. The support structure <NUM> may be coupled to and through the wall <NUM> of a duct <NUM> or on a seal chamber housing wall <NUM> for example, noting that the seal chamber <NUM> is also a duct <NUM>. The embedded support <NUM> may be embedded in a wall, say a pump wall <NUM>, or a wall of a duct <NUM>, or an endplate <NUM> of the seal chamber <NUM>, or where practical. An endplate <NUM> wherein the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is embedded becomes an embedded support <NUM>.

For the sake of ease of illustration, the radial disposition <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, thus radial to the axis X, is described. The same or a similar configuration for the embedment of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in parallel disposition <NUM>, which is parallel relative to the axis X, may be used when practical. Being the same or similar, the parallel disposition <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is not described in detail.

<FIG> illustrates a partial cross-section of a portion of the endplate <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, of a rotating fluid machine <NUM> wherein the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is embedded and is supported. A portion of the endplate or seal plate <NUM> is thus formed to become the nozzle holder <NUM> which is embodied as an embedded support <NUM>. In <FIG>, the endplate <NUM> is shown to be cut by a plane extending radially away out of the axis X and passing diametrically through the two exit openings <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. As depicted, the cut also passes in symmetry through the fluid discharge opening <NUM> open in the endplate <NUM>. The cross-section of <FIG> does not show the immersed fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, but well the thereto diametrically disposed backwall <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, which forms the obstacle <NUM>. Pumped fluid exits out of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> via the fluid discharge outlet <NUM> as exit flow XFL. The disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> relative to the seal chamber <NUM> is seen in the partial cross-section of <FIG>.

To integrate the controllable Pitot device <NUM> for operation with a rotating fluid machine <NUM>, the endplate <NUM> of the seal chamber <NUM> has to be modified to function as an embedded support <NUM> to pump fluid out of the seal chamber <NUM>. This means that the endplate <NUM> has to be configured to functionally accommodate and receive the Pitot nozzle <NUM> therein in pivotal freedom of motion. Therefore, a support bore <NUM> and an arrest recess <NUM>, as with the nozzle holder <NUM> of <FIG>, are both machined in the radial periphery of the endplate <NUM> to fittingly receive the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. Further, a fluid discharge outlet <NUM> is machined, parallel the X-axis, to allow fluid communication with the with the exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>, thus out of the rotating fluid machine <NUM>.

Next, although not shown, two screwthreaded blind bores may be machined in the arrest recess <NUM> to accommodate two matching screwthreaded mechanical fasteners <NUM>, such as bolts for example. As with the support structure <NUM> illustrated hereinabove and shown in <FIG>, these mechanical fasteners <NUM> are intended to retain the lock plate <NUM> in place and to prevent rotation and/or retrieval of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> out of the support bore <NUM>.

Once the modification of the endplate <NUM> is completed, this last one may be assembled to close the seal chamber <NUM>.

The Pitot nozzle <NUM> has to be fabricated to comply with the desired fluid communication path, to fit in the support bore <NUM> and to accommodate the orientation of the desired direction of discharge of the fluid pumped out of the fluid outlet <NUM>. Furthermore, at least one O-Ring™ seal <NUM> has to be mounted in the seal groove <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. Next, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> with the at least one seal <NUM> may be inserted in the support bore <NUM> until seated on the arrest recess <NUM>. Then, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has to be pivotally adjusted in angular disposition for the immersed fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> to face the direction of the flow of fluid. At this point, the exit openings <NUM> may be aligned with the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

The lock plate <NUM> may be disposed over the swivel plate <NUM> to retain the Pitot nozzle <NUM> and the pointer <NUM> in place. Two mechanical fasteners <NUM> may fixedly retain the lock plate <NUM>, and safety wire, or locking-wire, not shown in the Figs. , may be threaded through a bore opened in the head of one fastener <NUM>, be twisted and be anchored via a bore opened in the head of the second fastener, and be twisted again.

As shown in <FIG>, only one uncovered exit opening <NUM>, say the exit opening <NUM>, allows pumped fluid to pass therethrough, whereas the other one exit opening <NUM> is covered close and blocked. The exit opening <NUM> is shown to be disposed in alignment with the fluid discharge outlet <NUM> for the ingested fluid to be discharged to the exterior EXT of the rotating fluid machine <NUM> through the fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is uncovered and open in the endplate <NUM> of the seal chamber <NUM>.

The means for manufacturing the modification of the endplate <NUM> to operate as an embedded support <NUM> and to receive the Pitot nozzle <NUM> therein in pivotal degree of freedom of motion and in leak free operation are well known to those skilled in the art and therefore, need not to be described.

To adjust the controlled Pitot device <NUM> shown in <FIG> to a flow of fluid flowing in an opposite direction of flow, say counterclockwise CCW, it suffices to turn or pivot the Pitot nozzle <NUM> by <NUM>° for the fluid ingestion opening <NUM> to face the counterclockwise incoming flow of fluid CCW. To this end, the lock plate <NUM> has to be removed, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has to be appropriately pivoted, and the lock plate <NUM> has to be returned and secured in place.

<FIG> is an isometric view of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> shown in cross-section in <FIG>. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be supplied as a stand-alone product for use with existing equipment. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be used with a nozzle holder <NUM>, selected as a support structure <NUM>, or as an embedded support <NUM>. In <FIG> the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is perpendicular to the two aligned exit openings <NUM>. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> is thus operative to form a controllable Pitot device <NUM> and pump fluid as an exit flow XFL, to the exterior EXT via a fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

The Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be produced from materials compatible with the type of the pumped fluid(s). Such fluids may include liquids and gasses, holding contaminants, and residues that may be corrosive or otherwise aggressive to inappropriately selected materials. Therefore, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has to be manufactured out of appropriately selected materials such as metal, plastic material, glass and other known and available materials compatible with the fluid to be pumped.

Methods and processes for producing a Pitot nozzle <NUM> are well known to those skilled in the art, including for example, material chipping, 3D printing also known as additive machining, casting, etc. Furthermore, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be made from two or more separate machine parts and thereafter be fixedly assembled into one single machine part. For example, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be made without the nozzle bottom closure <NUM>, which closure may be fabricated separately. Then, to form the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, both those machine parts may then be joined together and assembled by means well known for the assembly of materials such as metals, plastic, glass and other known materials.

Once the manufacture of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is ended, a seal <NUM> may be mounted in the seal groove <NUM> to complete the configuration of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> which may be introduced via the a priori provided support bore <NUM>, into the modified endplate <NUM> operative as an embedded support <NUM>.

The controllable Pitot device <NUM> may further be configured for controlled operation of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> by remote control, to avoid the need of direct physical access thereto. Such an option may be convenient in case of constriction of equipment, or when noxious products are pumped, or when intermittent operation is required and control commands are provided from a faraway distance requiring extended time of travel to reach the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. Remote control and command of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> is easily achieved since the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is angularly adjustable from the exterior EXT of either one of a support structure <NUM> and as an embedded support <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment for command from distance away of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> by remote control. A power drive unit <NUM> may be coupled to the controllable Pitot device <NUM> for pivoting or rotating the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. The power drive unit <NUM> may be selected as for example, a stepper motor, a solenoid-driven mechanism, a hydraulic device, and a pneumatic device.

Simple motion transfer elements, mechanisms, and transmissions for coupling the power drive <NUM> to, for example, the pointer <NUM> of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>, say via a coupling drive <NUM>, are available and well known to those skilled in the art and need not to be described. Commands for controlled pivotal motion of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be emitted from a command station <NUM> via a thereto coupled first transceiver <NUM>, which communicates with a second transceiver <NUM> that is coupled to a controller of the power drive <NUM>. Communication between the command station <NUM>, the first and the second transceivers, respectively <NUM> and <NUM>, and the power drive <NUM> may be bidirectional to return feedback of the actual angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> to the command station <NUM>. To this end the controllable Pitot device <NUM> may support an angle measuring device of appropriate type, well known to those skilled in the art. The double headed arrows in <FIG> indicate that the actually measured angle of rotation of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be returned as feedback signals from the controllable Pitot device <NUM> to the command station <NUM>. The first transceiver <NUM> may be configured as a smartphone, a tablet or a laptop for example.

The use in industry of controllable Pitot devices <NUM> for rotating fluid machines <NUM> making use of mechanical seals is described hereinbelow.

It is well known that rotating fluid machines <NUM> take advantage of mechanical seals, or rotary mechanical seals, to prevent seeping escape thereout of the rotated fluid. To this end, the rotating shaft <NUM> of the rotating fluid machines <NUM> is supported by such mechanical seals which are disposed in the seal chamber <NUM>. Mechanical seals are well known to those skilled in the art, but are not shown in the Figs. Mechanical seals prevent the escape of fluid out of the seal chamber <NUM>. However, when contaminated fluid is pumped, contaminants penetrate into the seal chamber <NUM>. Those solid contaminants may include abrasive particles, such as sand for example, and may cause rapid deterioration of the mechanical seals. Hence, a controllable Pitot device <NUM> for pumping fluid and solid contaminants out of a seal chamber <NUM> wherein fluid may flow in a direction according to the direction of rotation of a rotating fluid machine <NUM>, may be advantageous to lengthen the service life of those mechanical seals.

In operation, friction between the rotating shaft <NUM> and the mechanical seal(s) generates heat that in turn, heats the mechanical seal(s) and shortens their operational service-life span. Therefore, pumping means are in use for such applications for cooling the fluid in the seal chamber <NUM> and thereby cool the mechanical seals to lengthen their service life. Alternatively, for specific purposes, the fluid flushing the seal chamber <NUM> may be heated. Existing pumping devices for pumping fluid out of seal chambers of rotating fluid machines <NUM> are not as efficient as the superior pumping efficacy of the Pitot nozzle <NUM>. As a further advantage, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is pivotable, and may thus be used with rotating fluid machine <NUM> rotating in clockwise CW and in counterclockwise CCW direction. Finally, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is controllable, and is accessible from the exterior EXT of the pump <NUM>.

<FIG> depicts a rotating fluid machine <NUM> shown for example as a pump <NUM>, which may rotate in a clockwise CW direction of flow as shown in <FIG>, or in a counterclockwise CCW direction of flow shown in <FIG>. The pump <NUM> has an axis X aligned with the shaft <NUM> which is driven by a motor <NUM> rotating an impeller <NUM>, and has a seal chamber <NUM> including seal chamber housing walls <NUM> closed by an endplate <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the controllable Pitot device <NUM> may be coupled in fluid communication with fluid in the seal chamber <NUM> via the endplate <NUM> or the seal chamber housing walls <NUM>. The Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be disposed in radial or perpendicular to the axis X of the shaft <NUM>.

The controllable Pitot device <NUM> may be coupled to the seal chamber <NUM> by use of a nozzle holder <NUM> which holds the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> appropriately immersed in the fluid flowing in the seal chamber <NUM>. Hence, the nozzle holder <NUM> may be implemented as desired or practical, as a support structure <NUM> or as an embedded structure <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a closed-loop duct <NUM> that is coupled to a controllable Pitot device <NUM> embedded in the endplate <NUM>, to pump circulating fluid out of the seal chamber <NUM> and for return back therein.

A fluid treatment apparatus <NUM> disposed across the closed-loop duct <NUM>, may accept fluid pumped by the Pitot nozzle <NUM> via a first conduit branch <NUM> of the closed loop duct <NUM>. Collected fluid is treated by passage through the treatment apparatus <NUM> and is returned into the seal chamber <NUM> via a second conduit branch <NUM> of the duct <NUM>. The fluid treatment apparatus <NUM> may be selected as a heat exchanger <NUM> configured to cool the fluid in the seal chamber <NUM>, or to heat the fluid.

Cooling may be achieved by air cooling of a heat exchanger <NUM>. Alternatively, as shown in <FIG>, water cooling may be used to cool the pumped fluid through the heat exchanger <NUM>. For example, the heat exchanger <NUM> may be cooled by fluid entering therein as shown by the arrow marked inlet IN, and exiting thereout as shown by the arrow marked outlet OUT. Evidently, the same process may be used to heat the fluid flowing in the fluid exchanger <NUM>. Other apparatus for fluid treatment <NUM> may include filtering devices, devices for injection additives into the seal chamber <NUM>, monitoring devices for analysis of the quality of the fluid flowing and/or exiting out in the seal chamber, and the like.

There have thus been described a method and a system for implementing a controllable Pitot device <NUM>.

The controllable Pitot device <NUM> may have a nozzle holder <NUM> which supports an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> having a selected angular disposition, as well as a Pitot nozzle <NUM> for pumping fluid in compliance with the selected angular disposition of the fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Further, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may support an immersed ingestion inlet <NUM> which is disposed in fluid communication with an uncovered open fluid exit opening <NUM>, and the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> may be oriented in an angular disposition which is independent from the angular disposition of the ingestion inlet <NUM>. However, for pumping, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> has to be configured and adjusted in angular disposition to provide fluid communication from the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, via the uncovered fluid exit opening <NUM>, to the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

Moreover, the nozzle holder <NUM> may support a distribution of fluid discharge outlets <NUM>, including a plurality of reversibly hermetically obstructed fluid discharge outlets <NUM>, one of which out of the plurality is a reversibly unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

The Pitot nozzle <NUM> thus forms a bidirectional Pitot pump for pumping fluid out a fluid flowing in a first direction of flow FL and a fluid flowing in a second opposite direction of flow OPPD.

By adjustment of angular disposition, the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may control the volumetric flow rates of pumped fluid, which rates may extend from a maximal volumetric flow rate to a minimal volumetric flow rate which is nil. The maximal volumetric flow rate is obtained with the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> fully facing incoming fluid, and with both an uncovered free open exit opening <NUM> and an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> being adjusted in a same angular disposition and being disposed in complete fluid communication.

The angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be adjusted by at least one of manual adjustment, motorized adjustment, and adjustment by remote-control. For adjustment of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> in angular disposition, a pointer <NUM> is coupled to and is configured for such angular disposition. The pointer <NUM> is accessible from an exterior EXT of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. Ingested fluid is pumped to the exterior EXT for discharge thereof via an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is supported by the nozzle holder <NUM>.

The controllable Pitot device may pump fluid flowing in a first direction of flow, and also pump fluid flowing in a first direction of flow and in a second direction of flow, thus to pump fluid flowing either in one direction of flow or in two directions of flow.

To pump fluid, the nozzle holder <NUM> may be configured as a support structure <NUM> which is coupled to a duct <NUM>, and may also be configured as an embedded support <NUM> which is embedded in a wall of the duct <NUM>.

The Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be adjustable in pivotal rotation in angular dispositions which may be selected as a disposition for pumping fluid, and a disposition wherein the pumping of fluid is prevented. It may be said that it is the angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> which controls the operation of the controllable Pitot device <NUM>. Further, the angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be easily adjusted by access to a portion thereof which protrudes out to the exterior EXT of the nozzle holder <NUM>.

The nozzle holder support structure <NUM> which supports the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may support either a fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is unobstructed for passage of fluid therethrough, or at least one fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is hermetically obstructed and sealed close, and in addition, at least one fluid discharge outlet <NUM> which is unobstructed for passage of fluid therethrough.

The Pitot nozzle <NUM> may further support two aligned fluid open exit openings <NUM>, the angular disposition of which is independent from the angular disposition of the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> on condition that the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is appropriately configured and is adjusted in angular disposition to provide fluid communication from the ingestion inlet <NUM>, via the open uncovered fluid exit opening <NUM> to the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

The angular disposition of the Pitot nozzle <NUM> may be oriented at least by operation of manual adjustment, motorized adjustment, and adjustment by remote-control.

The embedment of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> in the rotating fluid machine <NUM> may be achieved either ab initio while in manufacture, or by retrofit manufacture.

There is also provided a method for implementing a controllable Pitot device <NUM> wherein the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is pivotally orientable in angular dispositions which may be selected as an angular adjustment for pumping fluid and an angular adjustment for preventing fluid to be pumped.

It is noted that the same fluid ingestion inlet <NUM> is operative for both the first and the second opposite direction of flow of fluid, respectively FL and OPPD.

The angular disposition of the ingestion inlet <NUM> may be the same or be different from the angular disposition of an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

It may thus be said that for pumping fluid, the angular disposition of the ingestion inlet <NUM> is independent from the angular disposition of the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> as long as the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is appropriately configured and is adjusted in angular disposition to provide fluid communication from the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, via the uncovered open fluid exit opening <NUM>, to the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. Vice versa, for pumping fluid, the angular disposition of the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM> is independent from the angular disposition of the ingestion inlet <NUM> as long as the Pitot nozzle <NUM> is appropriately configured and is adjusted in angular disposition to provide fluid communication from the fluid ingestion inlet <NUM>, via a fluid exit opening <NUM>, to the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

For pumping fluid, the angular disposition an uncovered open exit opening <NUM> is dependent from the angular disposition of an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>. For pumping fluid, this means that fluid communication has to be established between an uncovered open exit opening <NUM> and an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet <NUM>.

Embodiments of the controllable Pitot device <NUM> described hereinabove find applications in industries producing fluid rotating machines <NUM> and industries using those machines, such as the chemical industry amongst others.

Claim 1:
A controllable Pitot device (<NUM>) having a Pitot nozzle (<NUM>) configured to pump fluid out of a flow of fluid, the device (<NUM>) comprising:
a nozzle holder (<NUM>) configured to support the Pitot nozzle (<NUM>) in pivotable adjustment in angular dispositions, comprising a first angular disposition to pump fluid flowing in a first direction of flow (FL), and a second angular disposition, to pump fluid flowing in a second direction of flow (OPPD), which flows in a direction opposite the first direction of flow (FL),
wherein the nozzle holder (<NUM>) comprises an unobstructed fluid discharge outlet (<NUM>) having a selected angular disposition, and
the Pitot nozzle (<NUM>) is further configured to pump in compliance with the selected angular disposition of the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet (<NUM>),
wherein the Pitot nozzle (<NUM>) comprises an immersed ingestion inlet (<NUM>) in fluid communication with an uncovered open fluid exit opening (<NUM>) of the Pitot nozzle (<NUM>),
the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet (<NUM>) is oriented in an angular disposition which is independent from the angular disposition of the ingestion inlet (<NUM>), and
the Pitot nozzle (<NUM>) is further configured and adjusted in angular disposition to provide fluid communication from the fluid ingestion inlet (<NUM>), via the uncovered fluid exit opening (<NUM>), to the unobstructed fluid discharge outlet (<NUM>),
characterized in that
the Pitot nozzle (<NUM>) comprises two aligned diametrically opposed open fluid exit openings (<NUM>), one of which being the uncovered fluid exit opening (<NUM>), and is adjustable in at least one angular disposition in which one open exit opening (<NUM>) is uncovered for free passage of fluid therethrough, and wherein the other one open exit opening (<NUM>) is covered close to prevent passage of fluid therethrough.