Fuel pump module

Abstract

The present invention relates to a fuel pump module that can be easily assembled and installed in a flat tank having a small height in an LPG vehicle, and can have a structure in which a liquid cup can be rotated and restored with respect to a plate by a support rod and a spring, so that the fuel pump module can be easily assembled and installed even in a flat tank having a small height. Furthermore, a member for blocking noise and absorbing vibration is combined with the fuel pump, so that noise and vibration can be reduced when the pump is operated.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a fuel pump module, and more specifically, to a fuel pump module that can be easily assembled and installed in a low-profile flat tank (bombe) in an LPG vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as part of the regulation of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and the response to particulate matter.

[0003] The trend of gradually lowering the height of the vehicle body is to meet the needs of recent vehicle design, such as lowering the overall height and lowering the center of gravity (lower center), ensuring interior and trunk space, and ensuring comfortable parking and riding (lower hip point).

[0004] Due to shape limitations (e.g., cylindrical and annular), it is difficult to apply existing LPG tanks, which are already used in existing LPG vehicles, to newer vehicles with low vehicle bottoms.

[0005] For example, existing LPG storage tanks are difficult to install under the lowered body of SUVs or RVs. Modifications have been made to the vehicle's underbody and suspension wheel centers to address this issue, but these modifications are costly.

[0006] Furthermore, when existing LPG tanks are located in the vehicle's trunk, the reduced loading space may decrease the vehicle's commercial value. However, if the tank size is reduced, the vehicle's total remaining fuel range will decrease, which could also reduce the vehicle's commercial value.

[0007] Therefore, it is necessary to develop a new shape of storage tank to correspond to the vehicle layout with a lowered vehicle body bottom. In particular, it is necessary to develop a new LPG pump module that can be applied to the improved shape of the storage tank.

[0008] The information disclosed in this background section is intended only to enhance the understanding of the overall background of the invention and should not be construed as an admission or in any way implying that such information constitutes prior art known to those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Various aspects of the present invention aim to provide a fuel pump module that can be easily assembled and installed in a flat storage tank with a relatively low height. Various aspects of the present invention will provide a fuel pump module in which noise and vibration generated during operation can be reduced.

[0010] The purpose of this invention is not limited to the above-described purposes. Other purposes not set forth herein will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art (hereinafter referred to as "those skilled in the art") from the following description.

[0011] To achieve the objectives of this invention, a fuel pump module includes: a plate, a reservoir, a fuel pump, an injection pump, a first support rod, and a second support rod. The plate is configured to be installed in an opening of a reservoir. The reservoir is disposed in the reservoir. The fuel pump is installed in the reservoir and is supplied with fuel from the reservoir. The injection pump is supplied with fuel from the fuel pump as a working fluid to draw fuel from the outside of the reservoir and discharge the fuel into the reservoir. The first support rod has a first end fixed by the plate and a second end rotatably connected to the reservoir. The second support rod has a first end fixed by the plate and a second end inserted into a connecting groove in the reservoir.

[0012] According to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, since the reservoir cup can be rotated and returned relative to the plate via a support rod and spring, the fuel pump module can be easily assembled and installed even in flat tanks with a relatively low height. The reservoir cup can be stably mounted and fixed to the bottom inside the tank. Furthermore, since components for noise isolation and vibration absorption are integrated with the fuel pump, noise and vibration can be reduced when the pump is running.

[0013] The methods and apparatus of the present invention have other features and advantages that will be apparent from or will be set forth in detail in the accompanying drawings and subsequent embodiments incorporated herein, which together serve to explain the particular principles of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 An assembled perspective view of a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is shown;

[0015] Figure 2 For along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown by line AA;

[0016] Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0017] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the reservoir cup in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0018] Figure 5A cross-sectional view is shown of a fuel pump module disposed in an LPG storage tank according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0019] Figure 6 For along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view shown by line BB;

[0020] Figure 7 and Figure 8 A schematic diagram illustrating the process of installing a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention in an LPG storage tank;

[0021] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C This is a schematic diagram illustrating several examples of changing the position of the fastening portion of the reservoir cup connected to the second support rod in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0022] Figure 10A , Figure 10B and Figure 10C This is a schematic diagram illustrating several examples of a second support rod being connected to a reservoir at different angles and in different directions in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 11 A schematic diagram illustrating an example in which the mounting spring of a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention can be removed;

[0024] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram showing the cross-sectional structure at the location where the injection pump is disposed in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 13 A schematic diagram illustrating the path of fuel flowing into the fuel pump through a filter and inlet cap in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention; and

[0026] Figure 14 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate the internal structure of a fuel pump in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but rather show slightly simplified depictions of various features illustrating the basic principles of the invention. Specific design features disclosed in this invention (including, for example, specific dimensions, orientations, positions, and shapes) will be determined in part by the specific environment in which they are intended for application and use.

[0028] Throughout these figures, the same reference numerals denote the same or equivalent parts of the invention. Detailed Implementation

[0029] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to various specific embodiments, examples of which are presented in the accompanying drawings and described below. Although the invention will be described in conjunction with exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood that this specification is not intended to limit the invention to those exemplary embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover not only the exemplary embodiments thereof, but also various alternatives, modifications, equivalents and other embodiments that may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0030] The descriptions of specific structures and functions disclosed in the embodiments of this invention are merely examples for describing exemplary embodiments based on the concept of the invention, and exemplary embodiments based on the concept of the invention can be implemented in various ways. The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein and should be construed as covering all variations, equivalents, and alternatives included within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0031] It should be understood that although the terms first and / or second, etc., are used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element discussed below may be referred to as a second element without departing from the teachings of the invention. Similarly, a second element may also be referred to as a first element.

[0032] It should be understood that when an element is referred to as "connected to" or "attached to" another element, it can be directly connected to or directly attached to the other element, or it can be connected to or attached to the other element with another element in between. Conversely, it should be understood that when an element is referred to as "directly connected to" or "directly attached to" another element, it can be connected to or attached to the other element without any other element in between. Furthermore, the terms used herein to describe the relationship between elements—namely, "between," "directly between," "adjacent," or "directly adjacent"—should be interpreted in the same manner as described above.

[0033] Throughout this specification, the same reference numerals denote the same parts. The terminology used herein is provided to describe embodiments without limiting the invention. In this specification, singular forms include plural forms unless specifically stated in the phrase. The terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used herein do not exclude the presence or addition of another component, step, operation, and / or element to said component, step, operation, and / or element.

[0034] Because SUVs, RVs, and other common vehicles typically have low and flat underbody, there are many limitations on the shape or design of LPG tanks to meet the required capacity and relevant regulations. Therefore, structures that connect approximately two to four tanks and are mounted under the vehicle are known.

[0035] However, LPG vehicles with lowered vehicle bottoms require LPG tanks of new shapes, such as flat tanks which are under development. Fuel pump modules (i.e., LPG pump modules) with new shapes and configurations are needed to accommodate flat tanks, and low-profile fuel pump modules that can be mounted on flat tanks with lower profiles are also required.

[0036] Therefore, a low-profile fuel pump module with a novel shape and construction, which can be mounted on a flat storage tank, is disclosed. The fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention is a turbine-type low-profile fuel pump module having a height-reduced shape configured for mounting and mounting in a low-height flat storage tank, and can have a flat profile that occupies a large lateral space.

[0037] In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, horizontally arranged structures such as fuel pumps, injection pumps, and filter devices can be used instead of vertically arranged structures to achieve low-profile fuel pump modules. Considering the low viscosity of LPG fuel, a turbine pump configuration can be used, and high-pressure performance can be ensured by minimizing the decrease in flow rate due to the increased pressure in the turbine pump configuration.

[0038] In the fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a gauge for detecting the remaining fuel level in the tank can be integrally provided, and an integral filter device is also provided, thereby preventing the turbine pump from malfunctioning due to foreign matter mixed in with the fuel. As described below, the integral filter device may have a strainer integrally connected to the fuel pump, thereby filtering out foreign matter from the fuel.

[0039] In the fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a reservoir cup that can be disposed in a tank at a relatively low height is used, and the reservoir cup has an injection pump, so that the reservoir cup is always filled with fuel, thereby improving the stability of fuel supply. Furthermore, a structure for blocking noise and vibration is applied to reduce the high-frequency noise and vibration generated by the fuel pump, preventing the noise and vibration of the fuel pump from being transmitted through the vehicle body to passengers seated above the reservoir.

[0040] In the following, fuel pump modules according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0041] Figure 1This is an assembled perspective view illustrating a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2 For along Figure 1 The cross-sectional view shown by line AA is illustrated. Figure 3 An exploded perspective view of a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention; Figure 4 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate the internal structure of the reservoir cup in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0043] This invention relates to an automotive fuel pump module, and more specifically, to an LPG pump module disposed in an LPG tank and pumping LPG from the LPG tank to the engine.

[0044] The fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention is a low-profile fuel pump module that can be disposed in a flat LPG tank with a relatively small height. That is, the fuel pump module has a small height, similar to a flat LPG tank, and is thus configured to be disposed in a flat LPG tank (hereinafter referred to as "tank") with a relatively small height.

[0045] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 as well as Figure 4 As shown, the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention includes: a plate 110, a reservoir 140, an injection pump 160, and a fuel pump 170, wherein the plate 110 is mounted on a reservoir (made of... Figure 5 The opening (indicated by reference numeral 1 in the attached figure) is made of Figure 5 (Refractive numeral 2 in the attached figure) In the figure, the liquid reservoir 140 is connected to the plate 110 for support and is disposed in the tank 1; the injection pump 160 is disposed at the liquid reservoir 140; and the fuel pump 170 is installed in the liquid reservoir 140.

[0046] An opening is formed on one side of the storage tank 1 to mount the fuel pump module 100, allowing components of the fuel pump module to be inserted into and installed in the storage tank 1. Therefore, a portion of the fuel pump module 100 can be inserted into the storage tank 1 through the opening 2.

[0047] The plate 110 of the fuel pump module 100 is installed and connected to the opening 2 so as to seal the tank 1 with the portion of the fuel pump module 100 inserted into the tank 1.

[0048] Plate 110 is a component referred to as a flange or mounting member of an automotive fuel tank or reservoir 1, and a valve assembly 111 including one or more valves may be mounted on the top (outer surface) of plate 110. Valve assembly 111 may include valves for preventing backflow or overflow, valves for relieving abnormal pressure in reservoir 1, etc.

[0049] The pump controller can be further mounted on top of plate 110. Fuel hose 184, connected to the outlet of fuel pump 170, can pass through plate 110.

[0050] The metering-inlet assembly 112 can be integrally formed with the plate 110. The metering-inlet assembly 112 can be formed by combining an inlet portion 113 and a fuel meter 114 with each other, the inlet portion 113 being used to inject fuel into the storage tank 1, and the fuel meter 114 being used to detect the amount of fuel remaining in the storage tank 1.

[0051] The fuel meter 114 may be a floating meter including a buoy 115. The buoy 115 of the fuel meter 114 is located outside the liquid storage cup 140 of the storage tank 1 and is used to detect the remaining fuel quantity in the storage tank 1.

[0052] A plate 110 installed in the opening 2 of the storage tank 1 seals the storage tank 1 and supports a portion of the fuel pump module 100, and the liquid storage cup 140 and the fuel pump 170 are connected to the plate 110 and thus supported.

[0053] The reservoir 140 is configured to be filled with fuel and the injection pump 160 located at the reservoir 140 supplies some fuel (which is pumped by the fuel pump 170) as working fluid to draw fuel from the outside of the reservoir 140 and discharge the fuel into the reservoir 140.

[0054] The reservoir cup, injection pump, and fuel pump of the fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention are substantially no different from the reservoir cup, injection pump, and fuel pump of the fuel pump module known in the art in terms of installation purpose, function, and use.

[0055] However, in the fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the portions including the reservoir and the fuel pump are laid out laterally and arranged horizontally, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, instead of being vertically erected and arranged top to bottom, the height of the modules can be reduced.

[0056] That is, as shown in the figure, in the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the height of the reservoir 140 is smaller than that of a conventional reservoir. However, as the height decreases, as described above, the reservoir 140 extends laterally to meet the necessary internal volume.

[0057] refer to Figure 4 As can be seen in the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, since the fuel pump 170 is horizontally positioned in the reservoir 140, the height of the reservoir 140 can be reduced. The fact that the fuel pump 170 is horizontally mounted in the reservoir 140 means that the motor (powered by...) Figure 14 The shaft (the rotating shaft of the motor) is indicated by reference numeral 171 in the attached figure. Figure 14 (Indicated by reference numeral 172) extends horizontally in the fuel pump 170.

[0058] In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the reservoir 140 may include a reservoir body 141 fixed in the reservoir 1, a top cover 143 fixed to the reservoir body 141, and a retainer housing 150 connected to the top cover 143. In this configuration, the fuel pump 170 is disposed in the space between the reservoir body 141 and the top cover 143.

[0059] The reservoir 140 has a container body 141 with an internal space, and the jet pump 160 can be disposed at an inlet formed through the bottom of the reservoir 141 (by... Figure 12 (Referring to the figure in Figure 142). Therefore, the interior of the cup 141 is filled with fuel that is drawn from and discharged from the outside of the cup 141 by the injection pump 160.

[0060] The body 141 of the liquid storage cup 140 is supported by a plurality of buffers 154 disposed on the bottom inner side of the storage tank 1. The outer bottom of the body 141 is supported by the buffers 154 on the bottom inner side of the storage tank 1.

[0061] The top cover 143 of the reservoir 140 has a shape that can seal the reservoir 141 by covering the top of the reservoir 141, and the fuel pump 170 is integrally formed inside the top cover 143. Up to now, a cylindrical retainer 144 is integrally formed at the bottom of the top cover 143, in which the fuel pump 170 can be horizontally inserted and fixed.

[0062] In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the top cover 143 can be configured as a full-coverage type, which seals the cup body 141 by covering most of its top. When the top cover 143 is a full-coverage type, fuel spillage in the reservoir 140 can be prevented and fuel supply stability can be ensured. Furthermore, since the reservoir 140 is sealed by the top cover 143, there is another advantage: noise generated by the fuel pump 170 operating in the reservoir 140 can be blocked.

[0063] Fuel pump 170 is inserted into retainer 144 integrally formed at the bottom of top cover 143, thereby connecting fuel pump 170 to top cover 143. Inlet cover 175 is connected to the end of fuel pump 170 and fastened to the first end of retainer 144.

[0064] The inlet cover 175 provides a fuel suction passage, through which fuel is drawn into the reservoir 140 of the fuel pump 170 when the fuel pump 170 is running. An inlet 175a is formed on one side of the inlet cover 175. The inlet 175a of the inlet cover 175 communicates with the outlet 188 of the filter 187. The inlet 142 of the fuel pump 170 is located inside the inlet cover 175.

[0065] Therefore, when the fuel pump 170 is running, the fuel in the reservoir 140 passes through the filter 187 and can then be drawn into the fuel pump 170 in sequence through the outlet 188 of the filter 187 and the inlet 175a of the inlet cover 175, which are connected to each other.

[0066] Filter 187 is a component that filters fuel drawn into fuel pump 170, that is, a component that primarily filters foreign matter from fuel drawn from the interior of reservoir 140. In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, filter 187 has a plate shape and is arranged in the cup body 141 of reservoir 140 below fuel pump 170 and retainer 144.

[0067] refer to Figure 4 As can be seen from various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, filter 187 is a filtration device configured to remove foreign matter from fuel, which is arranged below fuel pump 170 in fuel pump module 100. As shown, an integral filtration unit is applied in fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, wherein thin filter 187 connected to fuel pump 170 via inlet cap 175 is arranged below fuel pump 170 in close contact with the bottom of reservoir 140, thereby reducing the number of components and reducing the overall size.

[0068] When the fuel pump 170 is running and suction is applied to the fuel in the cup 141, the fuel drawn in by the suction flows into the filter 187 and removes foreign matter from the fuel. Thereafter, fuel is drawn from the filter 187 into the fuel pump 170 through the outlet 188 of the filter 187 and the inlet 175a of the inlet cap 175.

[0069] Multiple components for absorbing and reducing vibration, absorbing shock, and blocking noise from the fuel pump 170 are arranged between the retainer 144 and the fuel pump 170, and between the fuel pump 170 and the inlet cover 175. A first washer 176 for reducing the vibration of the fuel pump may be provided at the second end of the fuel pump 170 where the outlet is located.

[0070] The first washer 176 is cylindrical and can be fitted between the outer surface of the second end of the fuel pump 170 and the inner surface of the first end of the retainer 144. The first washer 176 is made of a material that can dampen and absorb vibrations, such as rubber.

[0071] The following components may be arranged between the inlet cover 175 and the first end of the fuel pump 170: an O-ring seal 177 for sealing, a second washer 178 for reducing vibration of the fuel pump 170, an inlet filter 179 arranged in the inlet of the fuel pump 170 to remove foreign matter from the fuel, a barrier 180 arranged around the inlet of the fuel pump 170 to prevent the fuel pump 170 from generating noise inside the inlet cover 175, and a shape retainer 181 arranged in the barrier 180 to maintain the shape of the barrier 180.

[0072] End cap 182 is connected to the second end of fuel pump 170 provided with first gasket 176, and wire assembly 183 for providing power between end cap 182 and plate 110 is connected to end cap 182.

[0073] An outlet is formed at the second end of the fuel pump 170, and a connecting hose 184 is connected to the outlet, thereby allowing fuel discharged from the outlet under pressure through the connecting hose. The connecting hose 184 is secured to the outlet of the fuel pump 170 by a clamp 185, thereby being fixed in place. As described above, the connecting hose 184 connected to the outlet of the fuel pump 170 is connected to the fuel supply line outside the storage tank 1 via a plate 110.

[0074] In addition to the connecting hose 184, an injection hose 186, used to supply a portion of the pressurized fuel as working fluid to the injection pump 160, is connected to the outlet for discharging fuel from the fuel pump 170. The injection hose 186 connects from the fuel pump 170 to the working fluid supply of the injection pump 160, supplying fuel delivered by the fuel pump 170 to the working fluid supply of the injection pump 160.

[0075] The jet pump 160 can be installed in the inlet 142 formed through the bottom of the reservoir 140, and the check valve 161 can be installed in the jet pump 160 at the inlet 142 of the reservoir 140 to prevent backflow.

[0076] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view is shown of a fuel pump module disposed in a storage tank according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention; Figure 6 For along Figure 5 The cross-sectional view shown by line BB.

[0077] As shown in the figure, the plate 110 of the fuel pump module 100 is configured as an opening 2 of the sealed storage tank 1, and the liquid storage cup 140 and the fuel pump 170 connected to the bottom of the plate 110 are located in the storage tank 1. The first support rod 120 is connected to the bottom (inner surface) of the plate 110 for integral fixation.

[0078] Flange 121 may be formed at the upper end of the first support rod 120, such as Figure 3 As shown, the first support rod 120 is fixed. The flange 121 formed at the upper end of the first support rod 120 contacts the bottom of the plate 110, and then the flange 121 of the first support rod 120 is fastened to the plate 110 by bolts 122, thereby the first support rod 120 can be fixed to the plate 110.

[0079] A first support rod 120 extends downward from the bottom of the plate 110 and connects the plate 110 and the reservoir cup 140 to each other. Specifically, the first support rod 120 connects the plate 110 and the retainer housing 150 to each other. The retainer housing 150 is connected to the top cover 143, thereby connecting the support rod 120 to the top cover 143 via the retainer housing 150.

[0080] For the connection structure between the first support rod 120 and the retainer housing 150, such as Figure 3 As shown, a laterally curved hinge shaft portion 123 is formed at the lower end of the first support rod 120. The hinge shaft portion 123 of the first support rod 120 is rotatably connected to a connecting portion 151 protruding from the top of the retainer housing 150.

[0081] refer to Figure 6 As can be seen, the connecting portion 151 protrudes upward from the top of the retainer housing 150, and the hinge hole 152 is formed to pass through the connecting portion 151. The hinge shaft portion 123 of the first support rod 120 is inserted into the hinge hole 152 of the connecting portion 151, thereby rotatably connecting the first support rod 120 to the retainer housing 150.

[0082] The entire reservoir cup 140 can rotate around the connection between the first support rod 120 and the retainer housing 150 (i.e., the hinge shaft portion 123 of the first support rod 120 and the hinge hole 152 of the retainer housing 150).

[0083] like Figure 6 As shown, a receiving groove 145 is formed at the top cover 143 of the liquid storage cup 140, and the retainer housing 150 can be inserted into the receiving groove 145 so that the retainer housing 150 is fitted in the receiving groove 145 and can move up and down.

[0084] In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, assuming that the entire shape of the reservoir 140 is elongated in one direction to have a predetermined length and the front-back direction of the reservoir 140 is defined as the longitudinal direction of the reservoir 140, then the receiving groove 145 can be formed at the rear end of the top cover 143, so that the retainer housing 150 can be attached to the rear end of the top cover 143.

[0085] When the retainer housing 150 is connected to the rear end of the top cover 143 in the longitudinal direction of the reservoir cup 140 and the first support rod 120 is rotatably connected to the retainer housing 150, the direction of rotation of the reservoir cup 140 about the hinge shaft portion 123 of the first support rod 120 fixed to the plate 110 can be the direction of up-and-down rotation of the front end of the reservoir cup 140 about the rear end of the reservoir cup 140, and the connecting portion 151 connected to the first support rod 120 at the rear end of the reservoir cup 140 is positioned in the reservoir cup 140.

[0086] When the hinge shaft portion 123, which serves as the lower end of the first support rod 120, is rotatably inserted into the hinge hole 152 of the retainer housing 150, which is connected to the rear end of the top cover 143 of the reservoir cup 140, such that the entire reservoir cup 140 can rotate around the hinge shaft portion 123 of the first support rod 120, the second support rod 124 can be connected to the top cover 143 separately from the first support rod 120 in front of the first support rod 120.

[0087] The second support rod 124 can be integrally formed with the first support rod 120 (see [reference]). Figure 3 (Example shown) or can be integrally connected to the bottom of plate 110 separately from the first support (see example). Figure 5 (Example shown). When the second support rod 124 is integrally connected to the plate 110 separately from the first support rod 120, similar to the first support rod 120, a flange may be formed at the upper end of the second support rod 124, and the flange of the second support rod 124 may be fastened to the bottom of the plate 110 and in contact with the bottom.

[0088] Despite Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the second support rod 124 is integrally formed with the first support rod 120 and extends forward, but as Figure 5 As shown, the second support rod 124 is connected to the bottom of the plate 110 separately from the first support rod 120. As described above, the second support rod 124 can be integrally formed with the first support rod 120 or can be connected to the bottom of the plate 110 separately from the first support rod 120.

[0089] refer to Figure 3The first support rod 120 is connected to the plate 110 and extends substantially vertically from the plate 110, and the second support rod 124 branches forward from one side of the first support rod 120. The second support rod 124 may have an inclined portion 125 that extends forward from the first support rod 120, bends downward, and then extends at an angle.

[0090] A hook 127 is formed at the lower end of the second support rod 124, and the lower end of the second support rod 124 with the hook 127 is inserted into a connecting groove 147 formed on the top of the top cover 143. The connecting groove 147 may be formed at a fastening portion protruding upward from the top of the top cover 143.

[0091] In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the fastening portion 146 to which the lower end of the second support rod 124 is connected is positioned in front of the retainer housing 150 in the longitudinal direction of the liquid reservoir 140 on the top cover 143, and the lower end of the first support rod 120 is connected to the retainer housing 150. That is, when the hinge point of the lower end of the first support rod 120 is rotatably connected to the liquid reservoir 140 is located at the position of the hinge shaft portion 123 of the first support rod 120 and the hinge hole 152 of the retainer housing 150, the fastening point of the lower end of the second support rod 124 connected to the liquid reservoir 140 is located in front of the hinge point of the first support rod 120.

[0092] In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, a stop (made of) is formed on the inner surface of the connecting groove 147 of the fastening portion 146 of the top cover 143. Figure 8 (As indicated by reference numeral 148 in the attached drawing), the stop can be inserted into the connecting groove (by the lower end of the second support rod 124). Figure 8 In the case indicated by reference numeral 147 in the attached figure, the hook 127 is held upward (see Figure 147). Figure 8 ).

[0093] Assuming the portion that bends downward from the second support rod 124 and then extends at a certain angle is called the inclined portion 125, a spring support protrusion 126 is formed at the upper end of the inclined portion 125, and a hook 127 is formed at the lower end of the inclined portion 125.

[0094] When the lower end of the inclined portion 125, including the hook 127, is inserted into the connecting groove 147 of the top cover 143, the mounting spring 128 is mounted around the inclined portion 125 below the spring support protrusion 126 of the second support rod 124.

[0095] The mounting spring 128 is arranged around the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 between the spring support protrusion 126 and the fastening portion 143 of the top cover 143. An elastic restoring force is applied to the mounting spring 128, causing the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 to protrude beyond the connecting groove 147 of the top cover 143.

[0096] In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, when the liquid reservoir 140 rotates up and down about the connection portion (the hinge shaft portion of the first support rod and the hinge hole of the retainer housing) between the lower end of the first support rod 120 and the retainer housing 150, the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 reciprocates into and out of the connection groove 147 of the top cover 143.

[0097] The hook 127 formed at the lower end of the inclined portion 125 is configured to hook onto the stop 148 in the connecting groove 147 in the direction that the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 protrudes beyond the connecting groove 147 of the top cover 143. Therefore, when the hook 127 hooks onto the stop 148, the liquid reservoir 140 is fixed and no longer rotates around the connecting portion.

[0098] In this configuration, the elastic restoring force of the mounting spring 128 (assembled around the second support rod) applied in front of the hinge point of the first support rod 120 serves as a force to push the entire reservoir 140, including the top cover 143, downward from the plate 110 and the first support rod 120. Furthermore, the elastic restoring force of the mounting spring 128 is applied along the direction in which the hook 127 of the second support rod 124 hooks into the stop 148 in the groove of the top cover 143.

[0099] In various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, when the plate 110 is fitted into the opening 2 of the storage tank 1 and the bottom of the liquid cup 140 (the outer bottom of the cup body) is supported by the buffer 154 on the bottom of the inner side of the storage tank 1, the force of the mounting spring 128 fitted around the second support rod 124 serves as a force to bring the bottom of the liquid cup 140 into close contact with the bottom of the inner side of the storage tank 1 (see [link]). Figure 5 ).

[0100] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the process of installing a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention in a storage tank.

[0101] Figure 7The process of installing the fuel pump module 100 into the storage tank 1 through the opening 2 is illustrated. As shown, the front end of the reservoir cup 140 is first inserted into the opening 2 formed in the top of the storage tank 1, and then the reservoir cup 140 is gradually pushed into the storage tank 1 so that the reservoir cup 140 can be fully inserted into the storage tank 1. Next, the plate 110 is attached and secured to the outer surface of the storage tank 1 surrounding the opening 2. Since the plate 110 is fixed in the opening 2 in this way, the storage tank 1 can be sealed.

[0102] like Figure 7 As shown, while the liquid storage cup 140 is placed into the storage tank 1 through the opening 2, the liquid storage cup 140 rotates up and down around the hinge shaft portion 123, which is the lower part of the first support rod 120. That is, while the liquid storage cup 140 is inserted into the storage tank 1 through the opening 2, the liquid storage cup 140 rotates downward, causing the front end of the liquid storage cup 140 to move downward relative to the rear end of the liquid storage cup 140, and the first support rod 120 is connected to the liquid storage cup 140. As the entire liquid storage cup 140 is fully inserted into the storage tank 1 through the opening 2, when the liquid storage cup 140 is placed at the bottom of the storage tank 1 and the plate 110 is engaged and fastened to the outer surface of the storage tank 1 around the opening 2, the liquid storage cup 140 rotates upward, causing the front end connected to the second support rod 124 to rise upward relative to the rear end.

[0103] like Figure 8 As shown, while the fuel pump module 100 is inserted into the tank 1 through the opening 2, the entire reservoir cup 140, including the top cover 143 connected by the retainer housing 150, remains rotated downward relative to the plate 110 and the first support rod 120. In this case, the hook 127 of the second support rod 124 remains hooked into the stop 148 in the hook groove of the top cover 143. During this process, the hook 127 and the stop 148 prevent the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 from being completely pulled out of the hook groove of the top cover 143.

[0104] Furthermore, after the liquid storage cup 140 is fully inserted into the storage tank 1, the bottom of the liquid storage cup 140 is positioned at the bottom of the inner side of the storage tank 1, and the plate 110 is fitted into the opening 2. Then, the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 is inserted deeper into the connecting groove 147 of the top cover 143.

[0105] In this state, the mounting spring 128, located between the spring support protrusion 126 of the second support rod 124 and the fastening portion 146 of the top cover 143, has been compressed. Furthermore, the elastic restoring force of the mounting spring 128 acts as a force that pushes the top cover 143 downward relative to the first support rod 120 and the second support rod 124 fixed to the plate 110, i.e., a force that brings the bottom of the liquid storage cup 140 into close contact with the inner bottom of the storage tank 1.

[0106] Figure 5 The elastic restoring force of the mounting spring 128, supported by the spring support protrusion 126 of the second support rod 124, is shown as a force applied downward to the fastening portion 146 of the reservoir 140 and causing the reservoir 140 to be in close contact with the inner bottom of the tank 1.

[0107] After the retainer housing 150 is assembled into the receiving groove 145 of the top cover 143, as Figure 6 As shown, the third support rod 129 is arranged between the bottom (or inner surface) of the retainer housing 150 and the bottom of the receiving groove 145 of the top cover 143. The upper end of the third support rod 129 is inserted into and fixed in the mounting groove 153 formed on the bottom of the retainer housing 150.

[0108] The third support rod 129 extends vertically downward from the bottom of the retainer housing 150. The lower end of the third support rod 129 is slidably inserted into a through hole 149, which is formed to pass through the bottom of a receiving groove 145 in the top cover 143. The upper end of the third support rod 129 is inserted into and secured in a mounting groove 153 in the retainer housing 150, while the lower end of the third support rod 129 is inserted into the through hole 149 in the top cover 143, thereby being configured to slide up and down in the hole 149.

[0109] In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, a plurality of third support rods 129 may be disposed between the retainer housing 150 and the top cover 143. For example, as Figure 6 As shown, two third support rods 129 can be disposed between the retainer housing 150 and the top cover 143, with a predetermined gap between the retainer housing 150 and the top cover 143.

[0110] The upper end of each third support rod 129 is inserted into and fixed in a mounting groove 153 formed on the bottom of the retainer housing 150, and the lower end is slidably inserted into a through hole 149 formed through the bottom of a receiving groove 145 of the top cover 143.

[0111] As described above, since the upper end of the third support rod 129 is fixed to the retainer housing 150, when the retainer housing 150 moves up and down in the receiving groove 145 of the top cover 143, the lower end of the third support rod 129 slides up and down in the hole 149 of the top cover 143.

[0112] Support springs 130 are arranged around each of the third support rods 129 between the top cover 143 and the retainer housing 150. The support springs 130 are arranged around the third support rods 129 respectively, elastically supporting the retainer housing 150 inside the top cover 143.

[0113] Therefore, when the retainer housing 150 moves up and down in the receiving groove 145 of the top cover 143, the third support rod 129 slides up and down in the hole 149 of the top cover 143, and the support spring 130 can be compressed or restored between the retainer housing 150 and the top cover 143.

[0114] As described above, the retainer housing 150 is configured to be elastically supported by a support spring 130 inside the top cover 143, and the retainer housing 150 can elastically move up and down in the receiving groove 145 of the top cover 143.

[0115] Therefore, vibrations can be absorbed vertically by the elastic up-and-down movement of the retainer housing 150 between the plate 110 connected by the first support rod 120 and the retainer housing 150, and between the top cover 143 connected by the third support rod 129 and the retainer housing 150.

[0116] Furthermore, when the retainer housing 150 slides up and down in the receiving groove 145 of the top cover 143, the third support rod 129 slides up and down in the hole 149 of the top cover 143 while guiding the retainer housing 150, so that the retainer housing 150 can move up and down stably.

[0117] In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, a third support rod is inserted through a hole 149 in the top cover 143, and a retaining ring 131 is fixed to the lower end of the third support rod 129 located below the top cover 143. The diameter of the retaining ring 131 is larger than the hole 149 in the top cover 143; therefore, when the retaining ring 131 is positioned below the top cover 143, the retaining ring 131 cannot pass through the hole 149 and is blocked upwards by the top cover 143, thereby preventing the third support rod 129 from being pulled up from the hole 149 in the top cover 143.

[0118] Therefore, in the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the reservoir cup 140 coupled with the fuel pump 170 can be moved at various angles relative to the plate 110 using a support rod, a spring, and the compression and tension (elastic restoring force) of the spring. Thus, the reservoir cup 140 can be easily inserted into and assembled in the narrow internal space of the tank 1 through the small opening 2.

[0119] The elastic restoring force of the installed spring 128 serves as a force that ensures tight contact between the reservoir cup 140 and the bottom of the inner side of the tank 1, and is evenly distributed and applied to the reservoir cup 140. Therefore, the entire fuel pump module 100, including the reservoir cup 140, can be effectively prevented from separating or detaching from the bottom of the inner side of the tank 1.

[0120] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6In detail, in the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention, as described above, the mounting spring 128, supported by the fastening portion 146 of the top cover 143, presses down on the reservoir 140 at the fastening portion 146, with the fastening portion 146 in a relatively forward position (see...). Figure 5 (See arrow in the image). Furthermore, the support spring 130, arranged between the retainer housing 150 and the top cover 143, presses down on the reservoir cup 140 via the top cover 143 in a relatively rearward position (see...). Figure 6 Therefore, the liquid storage cup 140 can be in uniform and close contact with the bottom of the inner side of the storage tank 1 (see...). Figure 5 (The arrow in the image).

[0121] Furthermore, since the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention has a horizontal structure, the position where the lower end of the second support rod 124 is connected to the top cover 143 can vary in the longitudinal direction of the reservoir 140, and the length of the second support rod 124 can also vary. In addition, the angle of the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 and the direction in which the inclined portion 125 is inserted into the connecting groove 147 of the top cover 143 can vary.

[0122] Figures 9A to 9C Several examples are shown of how the position of the fastening portion 146, to which the lower end of the second support rod 124 is attached, changes in the longitudinal direction of the reservoir cup 140 in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0123] Figure 10A , Figure 10B and Figure 10C Several examples are shown where the lower end of the second support rod 124 is connected to the fastening portion 146 of the reservoir cup 140 (top cover) at different angles and directions in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention.

[0124] As described above, the second support rod 124 can be connected to the fastening part 146 of the reservoir cup 140 (top cover) at various lengths and angles according to the installation conditions of the fuel pump module 100, thereby facilitating the assembly and installation of the fuel pump module 100.

[0125] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example where the mounting spring of the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention can be removed. As shown, a second support rod 124 can be coupled to a fastening portion 146 formed at the front of the reservoir cup 140 (top cover), and in this case, the inclined portion of the second support rod 124 can tilt backward and downward.

[0126] In this example, the first support rod 120 supports the rear of the liquid reservoir 140 and the second support rod 124 supports the front of the liquid reservoir 140. Thus, the first support rod 120 and the second support rod 124, fixed to the plate 110, stably support and fix the rear and front of the liquid reservoir 140, respectively, and the mounting spring 128 arranged around the inclined portion 125 of the second support rod 124 can be removed.

[0127] The second support rod 124 of the top cover 143 of the connecting plate 110 and the liquid storage cup 140 can be provided in multiple parts. When the length of the first support rod 120 and the second support rod 124 increases, the distance between the plate 110 and the liquid storage cup 140 can be increased.

[0128] As described above, when the lengths of the first support rod 120 and the second support rod 124 are increased, the fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention can also be installed in existing tanks with greater height, in addition to the flat storage tank 1. Therefore, the fuel pump module can be shared regardless of the type of vehicle.

[0129] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the cross-sectional structure at the location of the injection pump in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the injection pump 160 may be disposed in an inlet 142 formed through the bottom of the reservoir 140.

[0130] Because the injection pump 160 is located at the bottom of the reservoir 140, the reservoir 140 can remain full of fuel until the amount of fuel in the tank 1 reaches an unusable level. In various exemplary embodiments of the invention, the reservoir 140 has a shape that is height-reduced and laterally extended, i.e., a flat shape, compared to related technologies.

[0131] Since the storage tank 1 can also have a shape that is reduced in height and expanded laterally, i.e., a flat shape, the height of the unusable remaining amount of fuel in the storage tank 1 that cannot be drawn into the storage cup 140 by the injection pump 160 can be reduced. That is, even if the fuel height in the storage tank 1 is less than the fuel height in the related art, the fuel can still be drawn into the storage cup 140 by the injection pump 160.

[0132] Figure 13 This diagram illustrates the path of fuel flowing into fuel pump 170 through filter 187 and inlet cap 175 in a fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the present invention. As shown, the inlet 175a of inlet cap 175 is connected to the outlet 188 of filter 187, and a seal 177 for sealing and a second washer 178 for damping vibration of fuel pump 170 are disposed inside inlet cap 175.

[0133] The hole of the second gasket 178 is interconnected with the inlet 142 of the fuel pump 170, and an inlet filter device 179 is provided in the hole of the second gasket 178 to remove foreign matter from the fuel by filtering the fuel. A noise-blocking member 180 for blocking the fuel pump 170 is provided inside the inlet cover 175, and a shape retaining member 181 for maintaining the shape of the noise-blocking member 180 is provided inside the noise-blocking member 180.

[0134] In this configuration, when the fuel pump 170 is running, fuel in the reservoir 140 is fed into the filter 187 and then drawn into the inlet cap 175. During this process, the fuel can be filtered by the filter 187, and the fuel with foreign matter removed can be drawn into the inlet cap 175.

[0135] Pump noise discharged through the inlet 142 of fuel pump 170 is blocked by a baffle 180 located inside the inlet cover 175. That is, the pump noise is gradually reduced by the baffle 180, so very little pump noise is transmitted to the outside of the inlet cover 175.

[0136] Figure 14 A cross-sectional view is shown illustrating the internal structure of a fuel pump in a fuel pump module according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention. A turbine fuel pump 170 is used in a fuel pump module 100 according to various exemplary embodiments of the invention, which pumps fuel by rotating impellers 173 and 174 instead of using a plunger to compress and pump fuel by means of a cam reciprocating motion.

[0137] The fuel pump used in a typical LPG vehicle is configured to pump fuel by the reciprocating motion of a plunger. That is, when the shaft is rotated by the motor, a cam-shaped member eccentrically formed on the shaft rotates to cause the plunger to reciprocate linearly, and the diaphragm is driven by the linear reciprocating motion of the plunger, thereby drawing fuel in and venting it to the outside.

[0138] However, the present invention employs a turbine-type fuel pump 170 to draw in fuel and uses the suction force generated by rotating impellers 173 and 174 to deliver the fuel under pressure. The impellers 173 and 174 are mounted on the shaft (motor shaft) 172 of a motor that includes a stator and a rotor. In this case, as... Figure 14 As shown, a double impeller type with two impellers 173 and 174 on a single shaft 172 can be applied.

[0139] That is, the fuel drawn in by one impeller 173 is drawn in again by another impeller 174 and finally discharged, so that the fuel passes through the two impellers 173 and 174 in sequence. In this case, the two impellers 173 and 174 with different numbers of blades can be installed in the fuel pump 170, thus preventing the amplification of the noise generated by the pump.

[0140] For ease of interpretation and precise definition of the appended claims, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “above,” “below,” “upward,” “downward,” “front,” “rear,” “rear part,” “inner side,” “outer side,” “inward,” “outward,” “internal,” “external,” “internal,” “external,” “forward,” and “backward” are used with reference to the positions of these features shown in the accompanying drawings to describe features of the exemplary embodiments. It will be further understood that the term “connection” or its derivatives refer to both direct and indirect connections.

[0141] The foregoing description of specific exemplary embodiments of the invention is for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive, nor to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed; clearly, many changes and variations are possible in light of the foregoing teachings. The exemplary embodiments were chosen and described to explain the specific principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to implement and utilize various exemplary embodiments of the invention, as well as their different alternatives and modifications. The scope of the invention is intended to be defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A fuel pump module comprising: Plates, configured to be installed in the openings of the storage tank; A liquid storage cup, which is disposed in the storage tank; A fuel pump is installed in the reservoir and is supplied with fuel from the reservoir; An injection pump, which is supplied with fuel from the fuel pump as a working fluid, draws fuel from the outside of the reservoir and discharges the fuel into the reservoir; A first support rod has a first end fixed to the plate and a second end rotatably connected to the liquid storage cup; as well as The second support rod has a first end fixed by the plate and a second end inserted into a connecting groove in the liquid storage cup. The liquid storage cup includes: A cup body for holding fuel therein; A top cover, configured to cover the top of the cup body; and The retainer housing is inserted into a receiving groove formed on the top cover. The second end of the first support rod is rotatably connected to the retainer housing.

2. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, An inlet cap is connected to the first end of a fuel pump. The inlet cap is provided with a suction channel through which fuel is drawn from the reservoir. The inlet of the fuel pump is located at the first end of the fuel pump.

3. The fuel pump module according to claim 2, wherein, A cylindrical retainer is integrally formed on the bottom of the top cover, and the fuel pump is horizontally inserted into and housed in the cylindrical retainer.

4. The fuel pump module according to claim 3, wherein, The inlet cover is connected to and fixed to the cylindrical retainer.

5. The fuel pump module according to claim 3, wherein, A first washer for reducing vibration is fitted between the retainer and the second end of the fuel pump, with the outlet located at the second end of the fuel pump.

6. The fuel pump module according to claim 2, wherein, A sealing element, a second gasket arranged to reduce the vibration of the fuel pump, and an inlet filter arranged in the inlet of the fuel pump and configured to remove foreign matter from the fuel are disposed between the first end of the fuel pump and the inlet cover.

7. The fuel pump module according to claim 6, wherein, A noise-blocking element configured to block fuel pump noise is arranged inside the inlet cover to surround the fuel pump inlet. A shape retainer that maintains the shape of the barrier is assembled in the barrier.

8. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, The retainer housing is arranged in the receiving groove of the top cover to slide up and down in the receiving groove. A third support rod that guides the retainer housing to move up and down, and a support spring that elastically supports the retainer housing inside the top cover are arranged between the retainer housing and the top cover.

9. The fuel pump module according to claim 8, wherein, The retainer housing has a mounting groove formed on it. A hole is formed through the top cover. The upper end of the third support rod is fixed in the mounting groove. The lower end of the third support rod can be slidably inserted into the hole passing through the top cover.

10. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, The first end of the first support rod is directly fixed to the plate. The first end of the second support rod is integrally connected to the first support rod. The second support rod branches off from the first support rod.

11. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, The first support rod and the second support rod are separate support rods, and the first support rod and the second support rod are respectively fixed to the plate at the first end of the first support rod and the second support rod.

12. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, The fastening part protrudes from the top of the liquid reservoir. A connecting groove is formed in the fastening portion. The second support rod has an inclined portion that extends at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the second support rod and is inserted into the connecting groove.

13. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, The fastening part protrudes from the top of the liquid reservoir. A connecting groove is formed in the fastening portion. A hook-like feature is formed at the second end of the second support rod that is inserted into the connecting groove. A stop is formed inside the connecting groove to lock the hook in the direction in which the second end of the second support rod is pulled out of the connecting groove.

14. The fuel pump module of claim 13, further comprising: A spring is installed between the second support rod and the liquid storage cup, providing an elastic restoring force to push the liquid storage cup towards the storage tank. The spring-supported protrusion is formed on the second support rod. The mounting spring is arranged around the second support rod to be compressed between the spring support protrusion of the second support rod and the fastening portion of the reservoir.

15. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, further comprising: A spring is installed between the second support rod and the liquid reservoir, providing an elastic restoring force to push the liquid reservoir towards the tank.

16. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, The liquid storage cup is formed into an elongated shape with a predetermined horizontal length. The longitudinal axis of the fuel pump is laid horizontally in the reservoir.

17. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, When the front-to-back direction of the liquid storage cup is defined as the longitudinal direction of the liquid storage cup, The connection groove of the liquid storage cup is located in front of the connection part between the first support rod and the liquid storage cup.

18. The fuel pump module according to claim 17, wherein, The connection between the first support rod and the liquid storage cup is located at the rear of the liquid storage cup.

19. The fuel pump module according to claim 1, wherein, The fuel pump is a turbine-type fuel pump, which includes two impellers on a shaft for outputting the torque of the motor, and the two impellers have different numbers of blades.

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