Modular sample system incorporating mounting bracket independent of housing, and method therefore

Abstract

A modular sample conditioning system formed for in-situ sampling installation, referenced herein as source mounted. The present invention relates to a docking platform or substrate configured to receive multiple, diverse sampling components in various flow configurations, coupled with a unique housing/enclosure formed to engage the docking platform so as to further strengthen and stabilize the mount, the enclosure (in rigid and non-rigid, flexible forms) also formed to engage one or more of the mounted sampling components, so as to provide access outside of the enclosure for visibility and/or manual access of same, providing an easily installed and maintained, user-accessible, on-site modular sampling conditioning/monitoring system.

Claims

1. The method of housing a modular sample system, comprising the steps of: a. providing a substrate coupling having a passage formed therethrough to receive a fluid extraction device, said substrate coupling having a first and second end; b. mounting said substrate coupling so that said passage of said substrate coupling engages a conduit containing a pressurized fluid; c. mounting a substrate bracket to said substrate coupling, said substrate bracket having a module mounting area; d. mounting one or more modular components along said module mounting area of said substrate bracket, said mounted modular components having fluid communication therebetween pursuant to a desired flow path, providing mounted modular components; e. providing a housing having one or more component openings to facilitate the passage therethrough a portion of one or more said mounted modular components, providing access and/or visibility of same; f. positioning said housing to form an enclosure about at least a portion of said mounted modular components, while g. mounting and securing said housing about one or more of said mounted modular components, comprising the step positioning said component opening(s) about said one or more said mounted modular components, so as to provide exterior access to a portion of said one or more mounted modular components outside of said housing as well as support and secure said housing in place.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein in step e said housing comprises first and second enclosure components, and wherein in step g said step of combining said first and second enclosure components comprises utilizing said one or more of said module component access apertures formed in said housing to engage said one or more of said mounted modular components, so as to support and retain said housing in place.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein in step e said housing is formed of flexible, insulated material, comprising a top, a sidewall joined along its upper edge with top, said sidewall forming first and second panels having first and second edges, respectively, said first and second edges having a space therebetween defining said one or more component openings to facilitate the positioning therebetween of one or more of said mounted modular components.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein step g comprises the step of utilizing fastener straps to engage said first and second edges of said first and second panels about said one or more mounted modular components.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein step g further comprises the step of utilizing said fastener straps to draw said first and second edges of said first and second panels together and block any space therebetween.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein in step d said modular components comprise modular sample components, and wherein there is provided the added step h of facilitating the flow of fluid from said modular sample components to an analyzer.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein in step h there is provided the sub-step h1 of conditioning said fluid as it flows through said modular sample components to provide conditioned sample fluid, as well as the added sub-step h2 of flowing said conditioned sample fluid to said analyzer.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein in step d there is provided the added step d1 of mounting said analyzer to said substrate bracket, and in step g said housing is secured so as to enclose said analyzer along with said mounted modular components, while providing exterior access to a portion of said one or more modular components.

9. The method of claim 1, wherein in step e said housing comprises first and second enclosure components, and wherein there is further included the added sub-step e1 of providing a gasket along said one or more said component openings formed in said housing, and wherein in step g there is included the added sub-step g1 of utilizing said gasket to facilitate engagement of said first and second enclosure components forming said housing to one or more said mounted modular components.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein in step c said substrate bracket has module component mounting apertures formed along its length to receive said modular components, and said module component access apertures formed in said substrate bracket are in alignment with said component openings formed in said housing when said housing is mounted in steps f and g.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein there is provided the added step h of utilizing said exterior access to monitor and control the flow of fluid to said modular components.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein there is provided in step d the added sub-step d1 of providing a fluid extraction device having a length, and engaging same to said substrate coupling by positioning a portion of said length of said fluid extraction device through said substrate coupling passage to provide a mounted extraction device, and there is further added the step i of removing at least one of said enclosure components to provide access to said mounted extraction device.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein, in sub-step d1, said fluid extraction device comprises a sample probe.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein said housing is insulated, and there is provided after step i the added step j of heating said enclosure utilizing heat trace from an analyzer.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein in step e said housing has an inner wall, and in step i said heat trace has a length, and there is further provided in step i the added sub-step ia of engaging a portion of said length of said heat trace to said inner wall of said housing.

16. The method of claim 11, wherein there is provided after step h the added step i of securing said first and second enclosure components to one another to selectively form said housing.

17. The method of claim 11, wherein there is provided after step h the added step i of securing said first and second enclosure components to one another via clips to selectively form said housing.

18. A modular sampling system for retrieving a sample from a pressurized gas source, comprising: a substrate coupling having a first and second end, said substrate supported by a conduit containing a pressurized fluid said substrate coupling formed to allow the passage of an extraction device therethrough to engage said pressurized fluid; a mounting bracket having a base engaging said second end of said substrate coupling, said mounting bracket having emanating therefrom a module mounting area having a length; one or more modular components mounted along said length of said module mounting area of said mounting bracket, said mounted modular components having fluid communication therebetween pursuant to a desired flow path, said modular components formed to receive fluid from said extraction device; a housing having one or more component passages for receiving portions of one or more of said modular components therethrough, so as to facilitate exterior access and/or monitoring of said one or more modular components outside of said housing; whereby, upon positioning said housing about said modular components and said mounting bracket, positioning said one or more component passages about a portion of one or more of said mounted modular components to provide protruded modular components, and securing said housing to said protruded modular components via said component passages, said housing engages one or more of said mounted modular components so as to provide exterior access to portions of said mounted modular components, while supporting and retaining said housing in place.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein one or more of said modular components are configured to condition said fluid from said extraction device to provide conditioned fluid.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein said extraction device comprises a membrane probe.

21. The apparatus claim 19, wherein said housing comprises first and second enclosure components formed to enclose said module mounting area of said substrate bracket to form a said housing.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein said module mounting area of said mounting bracket has module component mounting apertures formed along its length to receive said modular components, and said first and second enclosure components are formed to engage along their length to form said housing, said housing having formed there along module component access apertures aligned with said module component mounting apertures of said module mounting area, so as to allow the passage of portions of said mounted modular components through said housing, so as to provide access to said protruded modular components.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein one or more of said protruded modular components are positioned relative to said housing to facilitate exterior access thereto as well as facilitate the conditioning of fluid flowing therethrough, one or more of said protruded modular components further formed to engage said housing to support and retain said housing in place.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein said substrate coupling is formed to receive said extraction device without having remove said mounting bracket or said substrate.

25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein said fluid extraction device comprises a sample probe.

26. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein said housing is insulated, and wherein there is further provided a heat trace for heating fluid flowing through one or more of said modular components.

27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein said heat trace is powered by an electrical device associated with said modular sampling system.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, wherein said analyzer is supported by said substrate bracket and is situated within said housing.

29. The apparatus of claim 28, wherein said housing comprises first and second enclosure components formed to enclose said module mounting area of said substrate bracket, said first and second enclosure components configured to engage to one another to form said housing, while allowing access to one or more of said mounted modular components exterior said housing.

30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein said first and second enclosure components are secured to one another via pins to form said housing.

31. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein said enclosure components are secured to one another via clips to form said housing.

32. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein said enclosure components are formed to engage one another while interfacing with said mounted modular components and substrate coupling so as to provide a structural integration therebetween, said integration enhancing stability, while increasing rigidity of the system and retaining said housing in place.

33. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein said housing is formed of flexible material.

34. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein said housing comprises side, front and back panels, and a top panel forming a cover, said front panel being longitudinally separated to form first and second edges.

35. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein said first and second edges have situated thereon first and second fastener strips, respectively.

36. The apparatus of claim 35, where a space between said first and second edges forms said one or more component passages.

37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein fastener straps are provided to engage and tighten said first and second edges about said protruded modular components.

38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein said fastener straps comprise hook and loop material.

39. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein said fastener straps are configured to fill a gap between said first and second edges after said first and second edges are positioned between said protruded modular components.

40. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein said first and second edges of said front panel have formed therein weakened tear lines in a pattern so as to allow a user to remove a portion of said edges to provide a custom edge configuration to fit about said protruded modular components.

41. The apparatus of claim 39, wherein said first and second edges have printed adjacent pattern to as to indicate to a user where to cut said edges to provide a custom edge configuration formed to fit about said protruded modular components.

42. The apparatus of claim 34, wherein there is further provided belts or cinches formed to releasably engage and tighten said first and second edges about said protruded modular components.

43. A modular sampling system for retrieving a sample from a pressurized gas source, comprising: a substrate coupling comprising: a flange having first and second ends and a bore therethrough to receive a probe and provide passage therethrough to a conduit containing a pressurized gas; at least first and second spacers having first and second ends, said first end of said spacers affixed to said first end of said flange, said second end of said spacers forming a mounting surface; a substrate bracket mounted to said mounting surface of said spacers, said substrate bracket formed to engage and support modular components formed to receive pressurized fluid from said probe in a predefined flow pattern, providing conditioned fluid; a housing formed enclose said substrate bracket, said housing having space formed therein to receive one or more of said modular components so as to provide in one or more of said modular components at least partial exterior access and/or visibility, providing protruded modular components; whereby said housing is retained in place and supported by one or more of said protruded modular components.

44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein there is further provided an analyzer mounted to said substrate bracket, said analyzer configured to receive said conditioned fluid from said modular components.

45. The apparatus of claim 44, wherein there is further provided a heat trace powered by said analyzer, said heat trace configured to heat fluid flowing through one or more of said modular components.

46. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein said housing is formed of a flexible material.

47. The apparatus of claim 46, wherein said housing is insulated.

48. The apparatus of claim 47, wherein said housing has an open bottom.

49. The apparatus of claim 48, wherein said substrate bracket has a base having a length and width, and wherein said open bottom of said housing has a length and width formed to envelope said base, so as to enclose said open bottom.

50. The apparatus of claim 48, wherein said pressurized gas source is situated in a pipeline, and said open bottom of said housing is formed to rest upon said pipeline, so as to enclose said open bottom.

51. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein said housing is bifurcated.

52. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein said housing is formed of rigid material.

53. A method of providing a sample conditioning system, comprising the steps of: a. providing a substrate coupling formed to engage a fluid passage, said substrate coupling having an axial bore formed to allow a fluid extraction device to be positioned therethrough; b. mounting said substrate coupling to a conduit containing a pressurized fluid; c. mounting a substrate bracket to said substrate coupling, said substrate bracket having emanating therefrom a module mounting area having a length; d. mounting one or more modular components along of said module mounting area; e. positioning said fluid extraction device through said substrate coupling via said axial bore to receive flow from said pressurized fluid; f. providing a flow path from said fluid extraction device to one or more of said modular components g. facilitating the flow of fluid from said fluid extraction device to one or more of said modular components via said flow path; h. providing an enclosure to engage said substrate coupling to at least partially enclose same, forming a housing, while i. providing exterior portions of one or more of said modular components outside of said housing for visibility and/or access.

54. A method of housing a modular sample system, comprising the steps of: a. providing a substrate coupling formed to engage a fluid passage, said substrate coupling having an axial bore formed therethrough to facilitate the positioning of a fluid extraction device therethrough; b. mounting said substrate coupling to a conduit containing a pressurized fluid; c. mounting a bracket to said substrate coupling, said bracket having emanating therefrom a module mounting area having a length; d. mounting one or more components to said module mounting area of said bracket; e. positioning a fluid extraction device through said substrate coupling to engage said pressurized fluid; f. facilitating the flow of said pressurized fluid through said fluid extraction device to one or more of said components; g. positioning an enclosure to engage said substrate coupling, forming a housing about said modular sample system, while h. allowing portions of one or more of said components to pass through said housing so as to facilitate visibility and/or access to same, providing exposed components; while i. utilizing said module mounting area of said bracket to stabilize and support said enclosure forming said housing.

55. The method of claim 54, wherein step g comprises the added step g1 of providing one or more openings in said enclosure for receiving a portion of one or more of said components therethrough, while step h comprises added the step h1 of positioning said one or more openings in said enclosure so to facilitate the visibility and/or access to said one or more components exterior said housing.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein following sub-step h1, there is provide the added sub-step h2 of utilizing said portions of components passing through said openings to stabilize and support said housing about said modular sample system.

57. The method of claim 55, wherein in step i there if is further provided the step i1 of utilizing said module mounting area to form a backplate to provide a barrier behind said exposed components, and i2 allowing said backplate to engage said enclosure forming said housing to as to stabilize and support same.

58. The method of claim 55, wherein in step i there if is further provided the step i1 of providing a backplate associated with said module mounting area of said substrate bracket, said backplate formed to provide a barrier behind the exposed components, and i2 allowing said backplate to engage said enclosure forming said housing to as to stabilize and support same.

59. The method of housing a modular sample system, comprising the steps of: a. providing a substrate coupling having a passage formed therethrough to receive a fluid extraction device, said substrate coupling having a first and second end; b. mounting said substrate coupling so that said passage of said substrate coupling engages a conduit containing a pressurized fluid; c. mounting a base of a substrate bracket to said substrate coupling, said substrate bracket having a first module mounting area orthogonally oriented relative to said base of said substrate bracket; d. mounting one or more modular components along said first mounting area of said substrate bracket, providing mounted modular components; e. providing a housing having one or more openings to facilitate exterior access to one or more said mounted modular components; f. positioning said housing to engage said first module mounting area so that said component opening(s) provide exterior access to a portion of one or more of said mounted modular components; while g. utilizing engagement of said housing to said first module mounting area to support and secure said housing in place, with said housing enclosing said base and at least a portion of one or more of said modular components and said substrate coupling.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein in step d one or more of said modular components comprise modular sample components, and wherein there is provided the added step h of facilitating the flow of fluid from one or more of said modular sample components to an analyzer.

61. The method of claim 60, wherein in step h there provided the sub-step hi of conditioning said fluid as it flows through said one or more modular sample components to provide conditioned sample fluid, as well as the added sub-step h2 of flowing said conditioned sample fluid to said analyzer.

62. The method of claim 61, wherein in step d there is provided the added step d1 of mounting said analyzer to said substrate bracket, and in step g said housing is secured so as to house said analyzer along with said mounted modular components, while providing exterior access to a portion of said one or more modular components.

63. The method of claim 59, wherein in step e said housing comprises first and second enclosure components, and wherein there is further included the added sub-step e1 of providing a gasket along said one or more said component openings formed in said housing, and wherein in step g there is included the added sub-step g1 of utilizing said gasket to facilitate engagement of said first and second enclosure components forming said housing to one or more said mounted modular components.

64. A sampling system for retrieving a sample from a pressurized fluid source, comprising: a substrate coupling having a first and second ends, said first end of said substrate coupling mounted to and engaging a conduit providing passage to a pressurized fluid, said substrate coupling formed to allow the passage of an extraction device therethrough to receive flow from said pressurized fluid; a mounting bracket having a base engaging said second end of said substrate coupling, said mounting bracket further comprising a first mounting area having a length situated at a right angle relative to said base; one or more components mounted along said first mounting area of said mounting bracket, wherein one or more of said mounted components are formed to receive fluid from said extraction device; a housing having one or more openings formed to facilitate exterior access and/or monitoring of one or more of said components; whereby, upon mounting said housing to said sampling system so as to form an enclosure enveloping at least a portion of said substrate coupling and one or more of said components, said housing concurrently engages said first mounting area of said mounting bracket so as to provide exterior access to portions of said mounted modular components, while utilizing said mounting bracket to support and retain said housing in place.

65. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein one or more of said components are configured to condition pressurized fluid from said extraction device to provide conditioned fluid.

66. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein said extraction device comprises a sample probe.

67. The apparatus claim 66, wherein said housing comprises at least first and second enclosure components formed to enclose said mounting bracket, and at least a portion of said substrate coupling and said components.

68. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein said first mounting area of said mounting bracket has component mounting apertures formed along its length to receive said components, and said enclosure components are formed to engage along their length to form said housing, said housing having formed therethrough one or more component access apertures aligned with said component mounting apertures of said first mounting area, so as to provide exterior access to said components with said housing situated thereupon.

69. The apparatus of claim 68, wherein there is further provided a second mounting area having a length emanating from and orthogonally oriented relative to said base, said second mounting area also orthogonally oriented relative to said first mounting area, said second mounting area having an analyzer mounted thereto, said analyzer formed to receive fluid flow from one or more of said mounted components.

70. The apparatus of claim 68, wherein one or more of said mounted components are positioned relative to said housing to facilitate exterior access thereto as well as facilitate the conditioning of fluid flowing therethrough, and wherein one or more of said protruded modular components further formed to engage said housing to support and retain said housing in place.

71. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein said extraction device comprises an insertion probe.

72. An insertion probe adapter comprising: a body for receiving an insertion probe and supporting an abutting enclosure, said body having first mounting surface, and an oppositely-facing, second mounting surface; an axial extension emanating from said first mounting surface of said body for mounting said adapter; a socket having an opening at said second mounting surface of said body, said socket further having base having a threaded port formed therein, a passage leading from said threaded port though said axial extension; said socket, passage, and threaded port being coaxially aligned along a central axis, so as to form a feed-through bore formed to coaxially receive an insertion probe.

73. The insertion probe adapter of claim 72, wherein said body further comprises at least one threaded mounting aperture formed in said body, said threaded aperture positioned to receive and secure at least one threaded fastener extending from said second mounting surface to secure a mounting bracket thereto.

74. The insertion probe adapter of claim 73, where at least one tool engaging notch is provided along said body.

75. The insertion probe adapter of claim 73, wherein said axial extension of said first mounting surface is mounted to an isolation valve via threaded engagement.

76. The insertion probe adapter of claim 75, wherein said socket and feed-through bore are formed to receive said insertion probe therethrough so as to selectively pass through said valve to a source of pressurized fluid.

77. The insertion probe adapter of claim 76 wherein said second mounting surface of said body is formed to threadingly engage and support, via said threaded mounting aperture, a base of a mounting bracket, said mounting bracket further comprising a first mounting area having a length situated at a right angle relative to said base.

78. The insertion probe adapter of claim 77, wherein there is further provided one or more component(s) mounted along said first mounting area of said mounting bracket, wherein one or more of said mounted components are formed to receive fluid from said insertion probe.

79. The insertion probe adapter of claim 78, wherein there is further provided a housing having one or more openings formed to facilitate exterior access and/or monitoring of one or more of said components wherein, upon positioning said housing about said sampling system so as to form an enclosure enveloping at least a portion of said substrate coupling while abutting same, said housing further engages said mounting bracket and/or component(s) mounted thereto so as to house said mounting bracket and components situated within said housing, while providing selective exterior access to portions of certain mounted modular components via one or more openings formed in said housing.

80. The method of housing a modular sample system, comprising: a. mounting a first end of a mounting substrate to couple to an isolation valve; b. mounting a substrate bracket to a second end of said mounting substrate; c. mounting one or more components to said substrate bracket; d. inserting a fluid extraction device through said mounting substrate and isolation valve to receive pressurized fluid flow; e. providing a housing having one or more openings, and positioning said housing about said components to as to allow portions of one or more of said components to pass though said openings so as to provide visibility and access of said components from exterior said housing.

81. The method of claim 80, wherein there is further provided after step e the added steps: f. flowing fluid through said fluid extraction device to one or more of said components; g. utilizing said one or more of said components receiving fluid from said fluid extraction device to condition said fluid, providing conditioned fluid; and h. flowing said conditioned fluid to an analyzer.

82. The method of claim 81, wherein in step e said housing is positioned to abut said substrate coupling, enclosing a portion of same.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

(1) For a further understanding of the nature and objects of the present invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like parts are given like reference numerals, and wherein:

(2) FIG. 1A is a partially cut-away, isometric view of a pressurized source contained in a pipeline or conduit C, with an isolation valve mounted thereto.

(3) FIG. 1B is a partially cut-away, side view of the invention of FIG. 1A.

(4) FIG. 1C is a partially cut-away, end view of the invention of FIGS. 1A-1B.

(5) FIG. 2A is an partially cut-away, isometric view of the device of FIGS. 1A-1C, showing isolation valve 2 with the substrate coupling 3 mounted thereto.

(6) FIG. 2B is a partially cut-away, side view of the invention of FIG. 2A.

(7) FIG. 2C is a partially cut-away, end view of the invention of FIG. 2B.

(8) FIG. 3A is a partially cut-away, isometric views of the device of FIGS. 2A-2C, illustrating an exemplary extraction device 4 in the form of an insertion probe mounted to the substrate coupling.

(9) FIG. 3B is a partially cut-away, side view of the invention of FIG. 3A.

(10) FIG. 3C is a partially cut-away, end view of the invention of FIG. 3B.

(11) FIG. 4A is a perspective, upwardly oriented view of an exemplary modular sample conditioning system of the present invention, illustrating of various exemplary components (alternatively referenced as modular components or modular sample components) forming the modular sample conditioning system 5, the components mounted to a substrate bracket or, alternatively referenced, mounting bracket; some of the components in the illustrated embodiment are configured to receive sample fluid flow therethrough for treatment (such as pressure regulator or heater), or providing a visual readout on indication (such as a gauge), or control (such as a valve) or support (such as an electrical connection), or the like.

(12) FIG. 4B is a perspective, downwardly-oriented view of the invention of FIG. 4A.

(13) FIG. 5 is an upper, isometric view of the substrate bracket 6 (a/k/a mounting bracket) of the present system.

(14) FIG. 6A is a front view of the first, preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating various exemplary modular sample components forming an exemplary modular sample conditioning system using the substrate bracket 6 or mounting bracket of FIG. 5.

(15) FIG. 6B is a side view of the invention of FIG. 6A.

(16) FIG. 7A is an isometric view of the exemplary modular sample conditioning system of FIGS. 6A-6B, with the substrate bracket 6 or mounting bracket mounted to the substrate coupling 3 of FIGS. 2A-2C with the extraction device as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C.

(17) FIG. 7B is a side view of the invention of FIG. 7A.

(18) FIG. 7C is an end view of the invention of FIG. 7A.

(19) FIG. 8A is a side view of one of the two enclosure components of the components which are combined to form the housing of the present invention, the illustrated enclosure shown comprising the housing (approximately split in half along its length) with pre-drilled holes formed therethrough for component access and mounting of the unit.

(20) FIG. 8B is an end view of the housing/enclosure of FIG. 8A, illustrating the configuration of the unit including the holes or apertures formed therethrough for external access to modular components (along the side wall edge of housing enclosure 20) as well as a mounting aperture mounting the housing situated at the bottom or end of the unit (in the preferred embodiment of the present invention).

(21) FIG. 9A is an isometric view, of the mounted sample conditioning system of the present invention comprising modular sample conditioning components substrate bracket 6 or mounting bracket of FIGS. 7A-7C, with the bracket housing/enclosure of FIGS. 8A-8B mounted thereto.

(22) FIG. 9B is a side view of the invention of FIG. 9A.

(23) FIG. 9C is a frontal view of the invention of FIG. 9A.

(24) FIG. 10A is a partial, frontal, close-up view of the housing for the modular sample conditioning components of FIGS. 9A-9C, with user viewable and control components accessible via openings in said housing/enclosure, as well as pins 17 used for alignment of the enclosure components with gaskets 18 therebetween and held in place via clasps 15, as well as retaining of the enclosure component(s) when same is opened for access.

(25) FIG. 10B is a perspective, close-up view of the invention of FIG. 10A, providing a perspective view of various mounted modular components from exterior the housing.

(26) FIG. 10C is a perspective, close-up view of the edge of one of the enclosure components, illustrating pre-formed openings for portions of the modular mounted component(s) to pass therethrough.

(27) FIG. 10D illustrates a rear view of the modular sample conditioning components of FIG. 10A, illustrating the flow path of the pressurized fluid out of the extraction device 4, through an elbow to a tube T (coiled to allow positioning) leading to a regulator R, then out through a valve V to the modular components M.

(28) FIG. 11A is a perspective view, of the housing enclosure of the present invention enclosing the modular sample system of FIGS. 10A-10C, in a completed installation.

(29) FIG. 11B is an end view of the invention of FIG. 11A.

(30) FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a second, alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the housing enclosure enclosing the modular sample system as a stand-alone location situated between the source and the analyzer.

(31) FIG. 12B is a frontal view of the invention of FIG. 12A.

(32) FIG. 13 is a frontal view of a third, alternative embodiment of the present invention, wherein the modular conditioning mounted on the substrate bracket/mounting bracket and enclosed by the housing/enclosure, at the location of and just prior to a stationary analyzer.

(33) FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of still other embodiments of the present invention illustrating the modular sample system of the present invention integrated with a portable analyzer.

(34) FIG. 15 is an isometric view of the invention of FIG. 14.

(35) FIG. 16 is an end, partially exploded view of the invention of FIGS. 3A-3C.

(36) FIG. 17 is a perspective, partially exploded view of the invention of FIG. 16

(37) FIG. 18 is an end, exploded view of the invention of FIGS. 7A-7C.

(38) FIG. 19 is a side, partial, cut-away view of the system of FIGS. 3A-3C.

(39) FIG. 20 is a side, perspective close-up, cut-away view, of the invention of FIG. 3A.

(40) FIG. 21 is an isometric, cut-away, close-up, view of the substrate coupling mounted to the isolation valve.

(41) FIG. 21A is a cross-sectional view of the device of FIG. 21.

(42) FIG. 22 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the invention, having the substrate coupling 3, substrate bracket 6, isolation valve 2 mounted to conduit C or pipe, and extraction device 4 (shown as insertion probe) provided as in earlier embodiments, but utilizing a heat trace 37 instead of a heater block and power cable (for example, as shown in FIG. 7A-C), the present embodiment providing heat to one or more mounted modular conditioning components M or the like, and without the necessity of a power cable.

(43) FIG. 23 is a frontal, partially cut-away view of the system of FIG. 22 utilizing a flexible insulation housing 38 with a releaseable fastener such as hook and loop (i.e., VELCRO brand) straps to retain the unit in place (as further disclosed herein) and to anchor same about protruding portions of modular conditioning components 5 situated therein while allowing heat trace 37 to pass therethrough.

(44) FIG. 23A is a side, partial, close-up, cross-sectional view of the layers of material forming the flexible, insulated housing 38 of the exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

(45) FIG. 24A is a side view of an embodiment of the present invention illustrating the substrate coupling 3 mounted directly to threaded conduit aperture 49 via threaded nipple 50, providing a passage to conduit C, having mounted thereto a fixed (non-insertable) probe such as the GENIE brand GP2 membrane probe 48 by A+ Corporation LLC of Gonzales, La.

(46) FIG. 24B is a side view of the invention of FIG. 24A, with heat trace 37 mounted to the probe 48.

(47) FIG. 25 is a side view of the invention of FIGS. 24A-24B, with substrate coupling 3 having mounted thereto substrate bracket 6 supporting modular conditioning components M and heat trace 37, which heat trace is formed to enter an enclosure or housing containing the modular sample system so as to heat the modular sample system, including probe 48 said probe formed to provide sample flow from conduit C.

(48) FIG. 26A is a side view of an alternative configuration substrate coupling 51, in the form of a circular flange, that is more economical to manufacture than substrate coupling 3 shown in FIG. 25, the substrate coupling 51 of the present embodiment shown with probe assembly A passing therethrough (prior referenced GP2 membrane probe housing shown as an example).

(49) FIG. 26B is a top view of the invention of FIG. 26A.

(50) FIG. 26C is a side view of the flange forming the substrate coupling 51 of the invention of FIGS. 26A-26B.

(51) FIG. 26D is an isometric view of the flange forming the substrate coupling of the invention of FIGS. 26A-26C.

(52) FIG. 26E is a top view of the invention of FIG. 26D.

(53) FIG. 26F is an isometric, side view of a spacer for use with the substrate coupling of the invention of FIGS. 26A-26C.

(54) FIG. 27A is a side view of the substrate coupling 51 of FIGS. 26A and 26B having mounted thereto substrate bracket 6 (with base plate 6a) supporting modular conditioning components M and heat trace 37, which heat trace engages probe 48.

(55) FIG. 27B is a frontal view of the invention of FIG. 27A.

(56) FIG. 28A is a side view of the substrate coupling 51 with substrate bracket 6 (having base plate 6a) supporting modular components 5 and heat trace 37 engaging probe 74, mounted to conduit C or pipeline.

(57) FIG. 28B is a frontal view of the invention of FIG. 28A.

(58) FIG. 29 is a side view of the flexible insulated housing/enclosure 38 of the present invention mounted to the modular sample conditioning system of FIG. 25, with portions of the modular sample conditioning components M and heat trace 37 passing and thereby exteriorly accessible.

(59) FIG. 29A is a frontal view of the invention of FIG. 29, illustrating the insulated housing/enclosure 38 mounted to the modular sample conditioning system of FIG. 25 situated on pipeline or conduit C, and fastener strips 43, 43, 43 for retaining the opposing edges 41, 41 of the enclosure in place and covering the spaces 44, 44, 44 between the conditioning components passing therethrough.

(60) FIG. 30A is a perspective view of the flexible insulated housing 38 of the present invention, showing the raised 45 edges 41, 41 upon which are provided a plurality of straps 43, 43, 43 which are releaseably adhered such as via hook and loop fastener (although belts, cinches, buttons, snaps, clips, clamps, zippers, pins and other means of fastening/retaining may be similarly utilized), providing flexibility in accommodating modular conditioning components, heat trace, power cables, sample conduits and other components or the like which protrude or pass therethrough, while filling any open spaces thereabout.

(61) FIG. 30B is an upwardly oriented, perspective line drawing illustrating the flexible insulated housing 38 of FIG. 30A, showing the raised 45 edges 41, 41 having in the present example fastener strips 42, 42 along their length, for example loop strips for engaging hook fasteners situated on fastener straps 43, 43, 43, or visa-versa, and positioning of the straps to form spaces 44, 44, 44 for the passages of components therebetween, as well as the open bottom 46 formed to pass over and about the area to be enclosed, and engage the base 6a or 6a of substrate bracket 6 or 6 respectively (as shown in FIGS. 5 and 27A, respectively), as well as a top joining the upper, back, sidewalls, and front panels (as further discussed herein).

(62) FIG. 30C is a greyscale view of the flexible insulated housing 38 of FIG. 30B, further showing top 46.

(63) FIG. 30D is an upwardly oriented line drawing of the inventions of FIGS. 30A-30C, without the fastener straps shown, further showing upper 59 back 57, sidewalls 57, 57 and front panels 58, 58.

(64) FIG. 30E is a perspective view of the underside of the flexible insulated housing of the present invention, illustrating an alternative mounting of the heat trace 99, which is shown passing into the open bottom 46 of the housing, and between retaining straps 100, 100 and the inner surface 102 of housing, so as to provide heat to the enclosure and items situated therein.

(65) FIG. 31 is a frontal view of an alternative flexible insulated housing/enclosure 38 utilizing belts 52, 52 with buckles 53, 53 or cinches to secure the housing, the belts, 52, 52 positioned to fit around the components 47, 47 which pass through space 54 between the edges 55, 55, the housing/enclosure 38 having a top 5, the belts tightening about the housing to draw the edges 55, 55 together to engage any protruding modular components therebetween, and being flexible, the edges can be made to deform so as to lessen or eliminate the space 54 therebetween.

(66) FIG. 31A is a side view of the invention of FIG. 31, illustrating the protruding modular components therebetween 47, 47.

(67) FIG. 32A is a perspective, side view of an alternative substrate bracket 80 to the bracket of FIG. 5, wherein, in addition to the module mounting area 81 provided at the front end of the unit, there is further provided a side mounting panel 82 situated orthogonally to the module mounting area 81, the side mounting panel 82 for having mounted thereto and supporting analyzers (such as the optical analyzer as shown, as well as gas chromatographs, spectrometers, etc), as well as other modular components, calibration cylinders, transceivers, and other devices.

(68) FIG. 32B is a perspective view of the substrate bracket 80 of FIG. 32 mounted to the substrate coupling 3 of the present invention mounted to a conduit C or pipeline, illustrating a probe emanating from the coupling flowing a fluid sample to a regulator and various modular components mounted to the side mounting panel 82 and module mounting area 81 of substrate bracket 80.

(69) FIG. 32C is a perspective view of the invention of FIG. 32B, wherein there is further provided an analyzer for receiving conditioned fluid from the mounted modular components M, said analyzer mounted to side panel 82.

(70) FIG. 32D is a side view of the invention of FIG. 32C, illustrating an appropriately sized and configured bifurcated housing of the invention of 8A-15 mounted thereto.

DETAILED DISCUSSION OF THE INVENTION

(71) Referring to FIGS. 1A-11B and 18-21A, the first embodiment of the present invention contemplates unique and innovative housing configuration, with substrate coupling and separate bracket for use therewith, shown implemented in conjunction with a self-contained, modular sample/conditioning system mounted at the source of the sample, such as, for example, a pressurized source 1 comprising a pipe or conduit C having mounted thereto a process isolation valve 2 (FIGS. 1A-1C).

(72) A substrate coupling 3 (FIGS. 2A-2C) is mounted to the process isolation valve 2. The coupling 3 connects the process source 1 to the modular sample system of the present invention (discussed in detail infra) while also allowing for the installation/utilization of an independent, insertable extraction device such as Mayeaux U.S. Pat. No. 8,522,630 probe, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.

(73) As shown in the figures, the substrate coupling 3 comprises a body B having first 31 and second 31 ends providing first and second mounting surfaces, respectively, and a length 31, with an axial bore or passage 33 formed longitudinally therethrough, said passage 33 having an internal diameter (ID) 33 sized for the positioning, i.e. insertion and retrieval, of the extraction device 4 (shown in the form of an insertion probe) therethrough. The second end 31 of substrate coupling 3 has a cylindrical socket 32 formed medially therein having an inner diameter (ID) 32 formed to receive insertion assembly 34 of extraction device 4, the passage 33 having a threaded connection 32 at the base 32b of said socket 32. The second 31 end of substrate coupling 3 has formed about the opening of socket 32 a substrate coupling bracket mounting area 27, comprising threaded apertures 3a, 3b, or slots formed to secure the base 6a of substrate bracket thereto. The cylindrical sidewall 27 of substrate coupling forms the housing engagement area 28, having an outer diameter 28 (OD) formed to facilitate close association, abutting contact, or other engagement with the inner diameter/perimeter of the mounting aperture formed in the housing/enclosure, as further described herein. Situated below the housing engagement area 28 is substrate coupling base 3 (shown having a hexagonal face having one or more tool engaging notches 3 for mounting), the base 3 having a width 28 greater than the diameter 28 of housing engagement area, said base orthogonally emanating from said sidewall of said substrate coupling so as to provide an extension 29 or support area, which could be used to support a housing resting thereupon, as will be further discussed herein. As shown, the first 31 end of body B has a nip 33 emanating therefrom, thereby providing an extension of passage 33, which, when combined with socket 32 provides a coaxially aligned feedbore along a common axis through the length of the substrate adapter (also referenced as an insertion probe adapter), for receiving the insertion probe therethrough.

(74) In the present system, the modular sample/conditioning system cooperatively engages the isolation valve so as to allow for the passthrough of an extraction device 4 (FIGS. 3A-3C), and allows both components to operate independently of one another. An enclosure (14a and 14B in FIGS. 9A-11B) is provided to house the modular components (as further discussed herein), but does not require direct connection or engagement to extraction device 4, as is the case with prior art.

(75) FIGS. 3A-3C and FIGS. 16-21A illustrate the extraction device 4 passthrough ability through the substrate coupling 3 and threaded connection thereto, through open isolation valve 2, to conduit C.

(76) FIGS. 4A-4B illustrate an exemplary application of the modular sample system 5, comprising multiple diverse sampling and/or conditioning components mounted to a mounting bracket, also referenced as the substrate bracket. The modular sample system 5 can be pre-configured independent of the operation of the extraction device 4, and also independent of the enclosure 14a and 14B, on-site, as required.

(77) FIG. 5 illustrates the substrate bracket 6 before the individual modular sample system components are attached and configured on it. The bracket is configured to allow multiple, diverse components to be installed thereto for cooperative flow therebetween, or otherwise, as required. The bracket holes of the substrate bracket 6 are shown as spaced evenly so that sample system components can be placed and configured in any desired order.

(78) The substrate bracket 6 is formed to readily attach, for example, via threaded mounting apertures 3a, 3b, at the free end of the substrate coupling 3 (FIG. 2C), which forms the substrate bracket mounting area 27 (FIGS. 2A-2C, 2I, 21A) of substrate coupling 3. A typical modular sample system 5 configuration is shown in FIG. 6A-6B. This exemplary system is shown incorporating various modular components M, including a temperature indicator 7, with tubing and fittings 8 connecting the various other components in the desired configuration, in the present example a serial flow comprising relief valve 9, a pressure gauge 10, an outlet NPT connection 11, a conduit junction box 12, and a self-limiting heater block 13, as shown. For purposes of discussion, those modular components M mounted to the substrate bracket mounting area 27 will be referred to as mounted modular components

(79) Each of these components are attached to the substrate bracket 6 (FIG. 5) and operate independent of the extraction device 4 (FIG. 7C) and the enclosure 14a and 14b (FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 11A).

(80) Continuing with FIGS. 1-11B, the module mounting area 23 of substrate bracket 6 with sample components mounted thereto is orthogonally oriented relative to base 6A so as to be enveloped by while interfacing, supporting, and/or engaging 110 the housing formed by enclosure 14a, 14b components, to provide a modular sample system which is 100% accessible for service or replacement, with the exteriorly accessible components visible portions of the components as well as those parts of the components for manual control) configured to pass through the housing or otherwise be selectively exposed or accessible by one or more opening(s) or apertures formed to receive same, as will be further discussed herein.

(81) FIGS. 7A-7C shows the pressurized source 1 with the process isolation valve 2 and the substrate coupling 3 and the extraction device 4 and the modular sample system 5. Also shown are the rubber gaskets 18 situated on the components to engage each hole of the bracket. The rubber gaskets 18 (rubber is an exemplary material, others may likewise be used), are positioned to engage the edges of one or both enclosures 14A, 14B when brought together at the housing component apertures, and are formed to seal the enclosure 14A, 14B about the components upon which the subject gaskets 18 are mounted, allowing a portion to pass through or otherwise be visible/accessible outside of the housing, as well as to help the enclosure slide onto and off of the substrate bracket.

(82) FIGS. 8A, 8B, 10a-10c, and 12B shows a side 36 of first enclosure half 14a and second enclosure half 14b (also referred to as enclosure components) having formed or pre-drilled therethrough passages or holes forming module component access apertures 24a, 24b which, when the first 14a and second 14b enclosure halves are combined, forms a housing 20 having a series of holes or passages formed to encircle a portion of respective mounted modular components partially protruding therethrough for user access or monitoring, as well as providing a free-floating mounting of the housing to the modular conditioning system (i.e., a housing enveloping the substrate coupling, substrate bracket, and modular components mounted thereto, without the need for fasteners or the like to directly secure the housing to the enclosed system) while stabilizing same, as will be further discussed herein. The module component access apertures 24a are evenly spaced so that sample components can be arranged in various different orders or configurations. The holes formed in the side walls of the housing preferably align or coincide with those formed along the substrate bracket and the mounted modular components associated therewith. The enclosure slides onto and off of the rubber gaskets 18 at the substrate bracket. The enclosure is shown using alignment pins 17 to align the two enclosure halves 14a, 14b so that the module component access apertures 24a, 24b formed in the assembled housing 20 align with the module component mounting apertures 24, 24 situated on substrate bracket, and said enclosure halves 14a, 14b forming housing 20 are held in place with clasps 15, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C. FIGS. 9A-9C shows one half of the enclosure 14a engaging 110 the module mounting area 23 of substrate bracket 6, modular components and substrate coupling 3, with the other enclosure 14b not yet installed, revealing the system being half enclosed. The module mounting area 23 of bracket forms a backplate 111 to facilitate a barrier and support behind the exposed modular components as well as engage, support and stabilize the enclosure halves forming the housing mounted thereabout. Alternatively, separate backplate can be mounted to the module mounting area 23 via mounting apertures 112. Each half of the enclosure is completely independent and is held in alignment with the substrate bracket using the pin 17 for that half. The other half of the enclosure 14b can hang from the substrate bracket using its pin 17 as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C. As shown, the base 3 of substrate coupling 3 has provided at least one tool engaging notch 3 disposed along its outer edge for receiving a tool, for engaging same.

(83) Continuing with FIGS. 2A-2C, 8A, 8B, 11B, 12B and 19-21A, the first 14a and second 14b enclosure halves forming housing 20 are formed to provide a mounting aperture 30 at the lower, centered, end 36 of the housing formed to allow the passage therethrough of the substrate coupling 3 in the vicinity of the substrate housing engagement area 28 of substrate coupling. In the first embodiment of the present invention as shown, the mounting aperture 30 has a diameter 30 formed to encircle or engage the housing engagement area 28 of substrate coupling, as well as utilize the edge forming the mounting aperture 30 of the housing, or gasket 18a associated with said edge of the housing, to rest upon the extended edge or extension 29 formed by the greater OD of base 3, utilizing same as a support surface, as well as a means of further stabilizing and anchoring the housing to the system.

(84) The pins 17 are used for alignment when the enclosure is in place or to hold the enclosure temporarily as shown in FIGS. 10A-10C, when service or maintenance is required. Both halves of the enclosure 14a and 14b may be removed at the same time or installed at the same time or used one at a time independently, thereby allowing 100% access to the modular sample system for service or replacement.

(85) The modular sample system can be completely replaced with a spare unit (another modular sample system 5) in the field as required or worked on at a component level with the component being repaired or replaced. This innovation allows a less skilled technician to operate in the field and a more skilled technician to operate back at the company home base or central service location.

(86) FIGS. 10A-10C shows the enclosure halves 14a and 14b on the substrate bracket fitting around the gaskets 18 aligned to the substrate bracket with pins 17 and held in place with clasps 15. As shown, pins 17a, 17b are attached to enclosure halves (14a and 14b) with cables 16 to align and retain the enclosure halves forming the housing 20 or enclosure.

(87) FIGS. 11A, 11B show the completed modular sample system in the first embodiment, at the site of the pressurized gas source. The alignment pins (FIGS. 10A-10C) ensure that each housing or enclosure half 14a, 14b, is properly aligned with the docking platform. This feature also helps to ensure that the enclosure halves will not move due to pipeline vibrations. The same alignment pins are also used to hang the enclosure halves when service or maintenance is performed (FIG. 10C). This feature is useful to keep the enclosure half handy (within reach) and off the ground but also out of the technicians' way.

(88) The housing formed by the joined enclosure halves (14A, 14B) with the openings are positioned and formed to engage the modular components where access outside the housing of parts of the modular components is desirable, providing visible components. Most components utilized in analyzer sample conditioning applications may be adapted for exterior use, even those not necessarily specific to natural gas or gas chromatography.

(89) The visible components can be placed in any order that the application would require. The hole spacing (the holes formed in the housing by enclosures (14A, 14B) are preferably evenly spaced so the visible components may be placed in any order that makes sense for the particular application.

(90) Exemplary modular components MC wherein visibility or other access exterior the housing would be advantageous for analyzer sample conditioning, for example, might comprise (in no particular order), pressure gauge(s), temperature gauge(s), outlet fitting(s), relief valve(s), and conduit connection(s), and the present system allows technician/operator access the exposed modular components external the enclosure or housing without having to open/disassemble same.

(91) By allowing visibility access exterior the housing, the technician is able to read the pressure gauge, temperature gauge and other important data readings, as well as access the outlet fitting and inspect the conduit wiring and know that the relief valve is not activated. Other components such as tubing, fittings, valves, and any other conditioning components needed are not visible, remaining in the housing formed by enclosure components 14a, 14b, since they only need to be accessed for service or maintenance.

(92) The present invention thereby provides visibility of components such as pressure gauge, temperature gauge, relief valve, outlet fitting, and conduit fitting without having to open or disassemble the enclosure (housing). This feature is in contrast with the prior art, which teaches a housing enclosure with pressure gauge and sight glass inside the enclosure as previously discussed. Unlike the prior art, the modular components in the present case can be arranged on the mounting bracket in any order using the substrate bracket design and matching enclosure design (housing) of the first embodiment of the invention.

(93) Accordingly, with the housing formed by the enclosure components 14a, 14b (FIG. 11A) the first embodiment of the present invention, the modular sample system 5 (FIG. 9) is protected from the environment (via the housing) and can be temperature regulated or controlled, and yet the gasketed openings of the housing are formed to engage the periphery of desired components to provide exterior access/visibility of said components that require said access for operation.

(94) This arrangement can accommodate a diverse selection of components such as electronic, electrical, flow control, etc. mounted into a non-customized substrate (the substrate bracket or mounting bracket) and housing (formed via enclosure components 14a, 14b), while allowing the components to be easily mounted into a customizable configuration along with protection from the environment and visibility of certain components, while providing 100% access to all components AND tubing when one or both enclosure components 14a, 14b forming housing are removed, while maintaining the rigidity of the system and not having to break any fittings or connection, or disassemble the system.

(95) The present design is unique in that the substrate/mounting bracket is designed to structurally integrate with the two enclosure halves forming the housing and the mounted modular components so that, when assembled together, the structure integrated to substantially enhance rigidity, allowing mounting to the pressurized source via the unique substrate coupling 3, while allowing the extraction device 4 to pass through, in a stable overall structure.

(96) To accomplish this enhanced structural rigidity, the configuration of the substrate bracket 6 is formed to have base 6A width 22 and depth 22a dimensions (FIG. 5) to closely approximate the interior width 20a and depth 20b of the base 20 of the enclosure formed by the combining of enclosure components 14a, 14b (FIG. 11A).

(97) Further continuing with FIGS. 4-5, 11A, and 8A-9C, laterally emanating from the base 6A of the substrate bracket is module mounting area 23, which has formed therethrough multiple module component mounting apertures 24, 24, shown in generally uniform spacing along its length, said module mounting area having a length 23a formed to generally span the longitudinal length 21 (in the present example, along a sidewall) of the interior of the housing formed by assembled enclosure components 14a, 14b, so that the module component mounting apertures 24 are aligned with the module component access apertures 24a, 24b formed by the joined enclosure halves 14a, 14b.

(98) When assembled, substrate coupling 3 is mounted to process isolation valve. Insertion probe 4 is then mounted to substrate coupling 3 via threaded connection, then a portion of its length passes through substrate coupling passage, through open isolation valve 2. Substrate bracket 6, which can have the modular components already mounted thereon forming the sample system 4, is mounted to substrate coupling 3. Referring to FIGS. 5, 6a-6b, 9A-9c, 11A, and 12C, modular components, which can vary depending on the application but might comprise, such as previously discussed, for example, a block heater 13, conduit junction box 12, NPT connection, 11, pressure gauge 10, relief valve 9, temperature indicator 7, or the like, each having a role in the conditioning, monitoring, or control of the sample, pass through 25 and engage via threaded connectors 26 or the like, the module component mounting apertures 24, 24. Module component access apertures 24a, 24b, are formed about the respective modular components when the enclosure halves 14a, 14b are joined to form the housing with the access aperture 24a, 24b as they are positioned to encircle the respective mounted modular components.

(99) Accordingly, external access to various mounted modular components is provided upon the joining of enclosure halves 14a,14b, to form housing 20. Simultaneously, the mounting aperture 30 at the lower end of the enclosure halves 14a, 14b forming housing are positioned to engage the cylindrical outer wall of the substrate housing engagement area 28 with said enclosure halves 14a, 14b being joined. The combined engagement of the engaged enclosure halves forming housing with the exposed modular components (which components are mounted to the substrate bracket) via component access apertures 24a, 24b and the engagement of the mounting aperture 39 about substrate coupling 3 thereby provides a structural integration with the mounting of the enclosure or housing to the system which enhances stability as well as the rigidity of the mount, while providing a floating case which envelopes and protects the modular sample system 5 without the need to affix the housing rigidly thereto, as the present system does not use or require fasteners to affix the housing structure directly to the system which it encloses, instead utilizing the housing configuration itself to engage said mounted modular components (via said modular component apertures) as well as the substrate coupling (via mounting aperture 30) to engage the lower wall of said housing about said substrate coupling.

(100) While the housing 20 of the present invention may be formed to two relatively rigid enclosure halves 14a, 14b, it is emphasized that said halves may be fabricated of a flexible material and provide similar functionality, so the present system is not intended to be limited to rigid housing(s).

(101) The present system thereby provides easy and full open access to the interior of the housing/enclosure and associated modular components or the like sheltered therein (components shown mounted to substrate bracket), by simply separating and removing enclosure halves 14, 14b.

(102) The base 6a of substrate bracket 6 (FIG. 5) mounts to the substrate coupling 3 via substrate coupling engagement slots 19, which are formed to align with threaded passage 3b formed in base 3a of substrate coupling 3.

(103) Accordingly, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the horizontal portion of the base 6a of substrate bracket 6 (rectangular base) has dimensions that approximate the interior base of the enclosure. Also, the vertical portion of the base substrate spans the length of the enclosure. This design makes the sample system rigid and independent of the enclosure (i.e. able to stand alone) allowing 100% access to all components and tubing for service, maintenance, and replacement.

(104) Conversely, the prior art has used a backplane or panel that was fastened to the back of the enclosure. Components were fastened to the panel and were only accessible if the cover was unbolted or opened. The present invention overcomes these issues.

(105) A second embodiment is shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, where the modular sample system 5 is not required to be situated at the pressurized source but is instead at a stand-alone location between the source and the analyzer. All of the benefits and features described above would apply to this location as well. It may be desirable to have one modular sample system at the pressurized source with one configuration and a second modular sample system with a different configuration between the source and the analyzer.

(106) A third embodiment is shown in FIG. 13, where the modular sample system is used at the same location as the stationary analyzer A, or configured into the analyzer.

(107) A fourth embodiment could include sample conditioning systems situated upstream the analyzer A (FIGS. 14-15).

(108) A fifth embodiment includes the analyzer and modular sample system mounted together at the source of the sample, which could include the analyzer and conditioning system sharing the same support bracket and housing.

Flexible Insulated Housing Enclosure Embodiment

(109) FIG. 22 is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the invention, having the substrate coupling 3, substrate bracket 6, isolation valve 2 mounted to conduit C or pipe, and/or extraction device 4 (shown as insertion probe), and can include a heat trace 37 instead of a heater block and power cable (for example, as shown in FIG. 7A-C), the present embodiment providing the heated sample to one or more mounted modular conditioning components M or the like, and without the necessity of a power cable.

(110) Referring to FIGS. 22, 23 and 23A, as opposed to a bifurcated, rigid or semi-rigid enclosure, the present illustrated embodiment provides flexible insulated housing 38, the housing shown retained in place by a releasable fastener such as hook and loop (i.e., VELCRO brand) (as further disclosed herein) and to anchor same about protruding portions of modular conditioning components 5 situated therein while allowing heat trace 37 to pass therethrough. As shown, the flexible, insulated housing 38 or enclosure in the exemplary embodiment illustrated is formed of, as an example, a weather resistant, exterior or outer layer of material 71 comprising about 1/32 thick woven polyester with an acrylic coating, an interior layer 71 (the layer forming the inner wall of the housing 38) comprising 1/32 4 ply polyester, and an inner insulating layer 72 comprising about EPDM foam rubber or the like situated between the outer layer 71 and interior layer 71.

(111) In addition, one or more webbed straps can be provided which are easily trimmable to fit the application are provided for securing the unit, and while the straps can vary in length, typically they are provided at about 36 length, for example. The exemplary system would provide an R value of about 1.7R@ . The materials would allow usage in as low as 50 degrees C., or as high as about 150 degrees C. The above specifications are for exemplary purposes only, and the material and the amount of insulation can vary depending on the environment and operational criteria.

(112) The housing 38 has a top 39 or cover section and either an open bottom 39 (which can engage and be enclosed by either conduit C, or the base of substrate bracket 6 (6a in FIG. 27B)), or a bottom panel can be provided having a slit or passage formed therein for allowing the passage of a supporting conduit or the like therethrough. The housing 38 further has a sidewall 40 joined along its upper edge 45 with top 39 or cover section, and defined corners 40, 40 can be provided to facilitate the illustrated, exemplary rectilinear configuration, although this shape is not intended to be limiting and can vary depending on the application. The sidewall 40 is longitudinally split in the front center to form first 58 and second 58 front panels having first 41 and second 41 edges, respectively, said edges joined by fastening straps or the like as further discussed herein, providing an insulated enclosure about the modular sample system M.

(113) FIG. 24A is a side view of still another embodiment of the present invention, wherein there is provided a substrate coupling 3 mounted directly to threaded conduit passage 49 via male threaded connection 50 emanating from underside of coupling 3, providing a passage to conduit C, having mounted thereto a fixed (non-insertable) probe assembly such as the GENIE brand GP2 membrane probe 48 by A+ Corporation LLC of Gonzales, La., as described in GENIE GP2 Membrane Probe product sheet SCC-GP2-PS_0016, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto. The present system may be utilized with a heat trace 37 mounted to probe 48, as shown in FIG. 24B.

(114) FIG. 25 is a side view of the invention of FIGS. 24A-24B, with substrate coupling 3 having mounted thereto substrate bracket 6 supporting mounted modular conditioning components M and heat trace 37, which heat trace engages probe 48 to provide a heated sample flowing to regulator R from conduit C, and to modular conditioning components comprising the modular sample system. This system can likewise be enclosed by the insulated housing 38 (as shown in FIG. 23).

(115) FIGS. 26A-26E illustrate an alternative configuration substrate coupling 51 that is more economical to manufacture, as well as providing a quicker and less complicated installation when compared to the substrate coupling 3 shown in FIG. 25.

(116) The present embodiment is shown utilizing (as an example) the GENIE GP2 membrane probe assembly P, which comprises a probe housing 75 having first 76 and second 76 ends and a passage 76 therethrough for receiving insertion probe 74, in this case, a membrane tip probe. In the present exemplary embodiment, the second end 76 of the probe housing 75 has a foot valve 77 which is normally closed but which is formed to open when the membrane tip probe is inserted to engage the second end of housing, allowing the flow of pressurized fluid from the conduit C through the probe 74. The probe housing 75h as formed on its exterior length a threaded area 62 for engaging a threaded passage (in this case, the central threaded passage 61 in flange 60 forming substrate coupling 51 as discussed herein) providing a sealed passage through same. The probe housing 75 further includes a threaded area for threadingly engaging the a threaded passage to the interior of the pipe or conduit C, providing sealed access to allow the second end 76 of housing to be placed therein.

(117) Details on the features of the GENIE GP2 membrane probe 48 can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,357,304, 6,701,794, 6,904,816 and 7,004,041, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference thereto.

(118) As shown, substrate coupling 51 comprises a flange 60 (shown circular and formed of approximately 0.4 thick, number 316 stainless steel, although the configuration and material can vary) the flange 60 having first 66 and second 66 ends with a central threaded bore 61 (prior referenced GP2 membrane probe shown as an example) formed to engage and be supported by probe 48, via engagement of threaded area 62 of a probe 48. Threaded passages 63, 63, 63 are situated about central bore 61 of flange, which are formed to engage threaded ends 67, 67,67, of spacers 64,64,64, respectively. Spacers 64, 64, 64 have first 65 and second 65 ends, the first end of spacers engaging the first end 66 of flange 60 via threaded ends 67, 67, 67, the second end 65 of spacers providing mounting surfaces 68, 68, 68 to engage and support (via threaded bore or the like) substrate bracket 6, respectively, as further illustrated in FIGS. 27A and 27B.

(119) Referring to FIGS. 26A-28B, substrate bracket 6 (with base plate 6a) is mounted to mounting surfaces 68, 68, 68 of alternative substrate coupling 51 via threaded fasteners or the like and has mounted thereto modular conditioning components M and heat trace 37, which heat trace may engage probe 48 so as to heat said probe and any sample passing therethrough. Alternatively, the heat trace can be used to provide heat to a regulator (such as, for example, as provided by the GENIE brand GPR Probe Regulator by A+ Corporation LLC) for receiving fluid from said probe, so as to regulate and heat same, or other component(s) as required, or be situated within the enclosure so as to heat its contents (e.g., including the probe, lines, modular components, and other apparatus).

(120) FIGS. 28A and 28B are side and frontal view, respectively, of the substrate coupling 51 with substrate bracket 6 (having base plate 6a) supporting mounted modular components M and heat trace 37 engaging probe 48, mounted to conduit C or pipeline.

(121) Accordingly, the probe housing can 75 be mounted 73 to the pipe or conduit C so that the second end 76 of housing is situated therein, with the foot valve 77 closed to prevent pressurized gas escaping until the insertion probe 74 is placed therein. The substrate coupling 51 can then be mounted to and supported by probe housing via the threaded area 61 of probe housing 75. The substrate bracket 6 can then be mounted to substrate coupling 6, then the modular components M, at which point the insertion probe 74 is placed into probe housing, with appropriate piping to facilitate flow from the fluid stream in pipe or conduit, through the insertion probe, to modular components M. As discussed, this may include use of a heat trace to provide heat to the system within the housing.

(122) FIGS. 29 and 29a illustrate the flexible insulated housing/enclosure 38 of the present invention mounted 69 to the conditioning components M forming the modular sample conditioning system of FIG. 25 enveloping the substrate bracket and coupling (not shown), with portions of the mounted modular conditioning components M and heat trace 37 passing and thereby exteriorly accessible, with the bottom of the housing/enclosure resting on the pipe or conduit C

(123) As shown, the housing/enclosure 38 is mounted to the modular sample conditioning system, enveloping and containing the mounted conditioning components, the substrate bracket and substrate coupling (not shown as contained within housing/enclosure 38). The housing is anchored in place via fastener strips 43, 43, 43 provided to engage and retain the opposing edges 41, 41 of the housing/enclosure 38 in place as well as securing the housing to the conditioning components, the strips covering the spaces 44, 44, 44 between the conditioning components passing therethrough for exterior access/visibility as well as securing the flexible housing/enclosure 38 in place via the protruding mounted modular conditioning components M as well as any other items passing therethrough including heat trace 37, with no other means of anchoring same generally required.

(124) FIG. 30A shows the flexible insulated housing 38 having provided raised 45 first and second edges 41, 41, respectively, each said edge having a fastener strip situated thereupon along its length. A plurality of straps 43, 43, 43 are releaseably adhered to said edges 41, 41 such as via hook and loop fastener (although belts, cinches, buttons, snaps, clips, clamps, zippers, pins and other means of fastening/retaining may be similarly utilized), providing flexibility in accommodating modular conditioning components, heat trace, power cables, sample conduits and other components or the like which protrude or pass therethrough, while filling any open spaces thereabout/therebetween.

(125) FIGS. 30B-30D illustrate the flexible insulated housing 38 of FIG. 30, showing the raised 45 edges 41, 41 having (in the present example) fastener strips 42, 42 along their length, for example loop strips for engaging hook fasteners situated on fastener straps 43, 43, 43, or visa-versa. The figures further illustrate an exemplary positioning of the straps 43, 43, 43 to form spaces 44, 44, 44 therebetween to provide passages for the passing of a portion of conditioning components therebetween. Further shown is the bottom 46 of housing/enclosure 38, the bottom may be open to provide space to pass over and about the area to be enclosed, and engage the base 6a or 6a of substrate bracket 6 or 6 respectively (as shown in FIGS. 5 and 27A, respectively), as well as a top 46 joining the upper 59 back 57, sidewalls, 57,57 and front panels 58, 58, forming an enclosure therein. Alternatively, there may be provided bottom flap or separate panel which is formed to enclose the bottom portion of the housing/enclosure 38, and which may be retained in place via straps, hook and loop, buttons, snaps, zipper, etc. Said bottom flap or separate panel may include separation lines or cut-outs to accommodate supports, conduits, wires, or other items passing through the bottom as would be found in various installations.

(126) FIG. 30 E is a perspective view of the underside of the flexible insulated housing of the present invention, illustrating an alternative mounting of the heat trace 99 which has a length 99 and end 99, which is shown passing into the open bottom 46 of the housing, and between retaining straps 100, 100 and the inner surface 102 of housing, so as to provide heat to the enclosure and items situated therein. As shown, the retaining straps 100, 100 have opposing ends affixed 101, 101 to the inner surface 102 of housing, with the length therebetween unattached, allowing passage of the heat trace 99 therebetween.

(127) FIGS. 31 and 31A are front and side views, respectively of an alternative flexible insulated housing/enclosure 38 utilizing belts 52, 52 with buckles 53, 53 or cinches to secure the housing, the belts, 52, 52 positioned to fit around the components 47, 47 which pass through space 54 between the edges 55, 55, the housing/enclosure 38 having a top 5. By tightening 70 the straps, the edges 55, 55 are brought closer together, while the flexible material forming the housing/enclosure 38 gathers at the components 47, 47 passing therebetween. In addition, an insulating strip can be provided which can have passages in pre-cut punch out, or pre-formed weakened tear lines, so as to allow the user to customize the strip to accommodate the particular configuration, or the strip can be formed of a material allowing one to form the slits required so that the components to pass therethrough, while blocking any spaces between the components so as to provide complete enclosure of at least the sides and top of the system.

Analyzer Enclosure Embodiment

(128) FIGS. 32A-32C illustrate an alternative substrate bracket 80 to the previously described substrate bracket 6 of FIG. 5, the present substrate bracket 80 further comprising a side mounting panel 82 situated in orthogonal orientation relative to the module mounting area 81 as well as the base 83, the module mounting area 81, side mounting panel 82 and base 83 formed to receive and have mounted thereto modular components 78, 78 (along module mounting area 81), components 87, 87, 87 (along side mounting panel 82) and one or more components 79 on base 83. As with the earlier embodiment of FIG. 5, base 83 of the present alternative substrate bracket 80 has a width 97 and depth 97 forming the base of the modular conditioning system, and has a substrate coupling engagement slot 85 formed in base 83, which, like the earlier embodiment is formed to engage the substrate couplings (3 or 51) and support configurations as described hereabove.

(129) The side mounting panel 82 is formed to receive, support, and have mounted thereto additional components including, for example, one or more analyzers A (for example, including but not limited to an optical analyzer(s), gas chromatograph, spectrometer, etc), as well as other modular components 87, 87, 87, regulators, transceivers, and other devices within a housing 94, which can have a construction and operative functionality as shown, for example, in the bifurcated enclosure 20 (FIGS. 11A-B, 12B, 13-15, etc) or alternatively the flexible insulated housing enclosure 38 (FIGS. 23, 29-30D) or alternative 38 flexible insulated housing enclosure (FIGS. 31-31A).

(130) As shown, the substrate bracket 80 in the present embodiment is mounted to substrate coupling 3, which in turn (as shown the embodiment of FIG. 7A and elsewhere herein) is mounted to a conduit C or pipeline (although the system can also be mounted to an independent support or various other configuration mounts, depending upon the circumstances of use). The embodiment of FIG. 32B illustrates the system in use with an insertion probe 95, for example, the GENIE brand GP2 membrane probe 48 by A+ Corporation LLC of Gonzales, La. the first end of the probe shown emanating from the substrate coupling 3, the second end of probe inserted into and receiving fluid from the conduit C or pipe so as to facilitate the flow 96 of a fluid sample to a regulator and/or various modular components mounted to the side mounting panel 82 and/or module mounting area 81 of substrate bracket 80.

(131) A shown, analyzer A receives conditioned fluid from the mounted modular components M, said analyzer mounted to side panel 82.

(132) FIG. 32D is a side view of the invention of FIG. 32C, illustrating an appropriately sized and configured bifurcated housing of the invention of 8A-15 mounted thereto. As shown, the housing, like the earlier embodiment, comprises two pieces joined together in the matter taught in the invention of FIGS. 8A-15, the present embodiment of FIG. 32A-D having a length 98, depth 98 and height 98 formed to house, envelope and protect the substrate bracket 83 and anything mounted to the module mounting area 81, side mounting panel 82 and base 83, including components, analyzer(s) and other devices mounted thereto, while allowing select mounted modular components 78, 78 partial sealed exposure to the exterior to of the housing for exterior access.

(133) It is further noted that not only components may be stored within the mounted enclosure and supported by bracket 81, but also other support items including, for example, calibration gas tanks or the like, or other components or analyzers which may be mounted to any available space on substrate bracket 80, including simply supported by or resting on the base 83. In addition, the substrate bracket 80 (as well as the earlier embodiment substrate bracket 6 of FIG. 5) or housings of the present application may be supported by vertical supports as required, depending on the load and environmental conditions.

(134) Based upon the above and foregoing, a method of providing a modular sample conditioning utilizing the present system may comprise, for example, the steps of:

(135) a. providing a substrate coupling formed to engage a fluid passage, said substrate coupling formed to selectively facilitate the passage of an extraction device therethrough;

(136) b. mounting said substrate coupling to a conduit containing a pressurized fluid;

(137) c. mounting a substrate bracket to said substrate coupling, said substrate bracket having emanating therefrom a module mounting area having a length;

(138) d. mounting one or more modular components along the length of said module mounting area;

(139) e. providing fluid from said fluid extraction device to said modular components;

(140) f. facilitating the passage of said fluid extraction device through said substrate coupling to engage the pressurized fluid;

(141) g. facilitating the flow of fluid from said fluid extraction device to said modular components;

(142) h. providing an enclosure to engage said substrate coupling to enclose same, forming a housing, while

(143) i. allowing portions of said modular components to pass through said housing, providing exterior portions of said modular components outside of said housing for visibility and/or access.

Elements

(144) A, A Analyzer C Conduit M Modular Components E Elbow R, Regulator T Tube V Valve P Probe/probe assembly 1 pressurized source 2 process isolation valve 3, 3, 3a, 3b substrate coupling, base, threaded mounting apertures 4 extraction device (as probe) 5,5 modular sample system, w/heat trace 6, a substrate bracket, base 7 temperature indicator 8 fittings 9 relief valve 10 pressure gauge 11 NPT connection 12 conduit junction box 13 block heater 14a,b enclosure halves 15 clasps 16 cables 17 pins 18, 18a gasket, gasket 19,a substrate coupling engagement slot 20,a,b enclosure base width, depth 21 enclosure length 22 base width, depth 23,a module mounting area, length 24, 24, 24a, 24b module component mounting apertures, access apertures 25 pass through 26 threaded Connector 27, 27 housing Mounting Area (on substrate coupling), cylindrical sidewall 28, 28, 28 substrate Coupling Housing Engagement area, width/diameter, base width/diameter 29 substrate coupling base extension 30, 30 mounting aperture for engaging substrate housing engagement area, width 31, 31, 31 substrate coupling first, second ends, length, diameter 32, 32, 32 substrate coupling socket, passage, threaded connection 33, 33 substrate coupling, threaded nipple 34, 34, 34 insertion assembly of extraction device 4, threaded end 35, 35 insertion retrieval, removal 36, 36 end, side of housing enclosure 37, heat trace 38, flexible insulated housing/enclosure 39, top, bottom w/slit 40,, side wall, corners 41, first, second edges 42, 42 fastener strip 43, 43, 43 fastener straps 44, 44, 44 space for passage of conditioning component therethrough 45 raised, upper edge 46, top, open bottom 47, components 48 GP2 Probe 49 threaded conduit passage 50 male threaded connection 51 substrate coupling (alternative) 52, belts 53, 53 buckles 54 space 55, edges 56, top open bottom 57, , back, sidewalls 58, front panels 59 upper 60 flange 61, 61 central passage flange, mounting surface threaded bore 62 threaded area of probe 63,, threaded passages 64,, spacers 65, first, second ends 66, flange ends 67,, fasteners/screws 68,, mounting surfaces 69 housing mounted 70 tightening 71, housing outer, inner material 72 insulating layer 73 probe housing mounted to conduit C 74 insertion probe 75 probe housing 76,, first, second ends, passage 77 foot valve 78, modular components 79 component 80 alternative substrate bracket 81 module mounting area 82 side mounting panel 83 base 84, length width 85 substrate coupling engagement slot 86, module component mounting apertures 87,, modular components 88,, height, width 93 analyzer 94 housing 95 probe 96 flowing 97, base width, depth 98,, housing length, depth, height 99,, heat trace, length, end 100, retaining straps 101 affixed 102 inner wall of housing 110 engaging 111 backplate 112 mounting apertures

(145) The embodiments listed are not intended to be an exhaustive list of applications, but only intended to show the need and some of the practical applications of the invention. Further, the invention embodiments herein described are done so in detail for exemplary purposes only and may be subject to many different variations in design, structure, application and operation methodology. Thus, the detailed disclosures therein should be interpreted in an illustrative, exemplary manner, and not in a limited sense.