Intake manifold integrated exhaust lance

Abstract

The present application relates to an intake manifold integrated exhaust gun. An intake manifold is provided that reduces the need for external fuel exhaust plumbing. The intake manifold includes an intake manifold bend portion and a distribution portion in fluid communication with the intake manifold bend portion. The intake manifold includes a flange extending radially outward from the distribution portion. The flange includes an internal fuel passage system having a first end and a second end. The internal fuel passage system includes a plurality of inlet openings distributed between the first end and the second end of the internal fuel passage system and is configured to receive excess fuel from a plurality of fuel injectors. The internal fuel passage system includes an outlet opening between the first end and the second end of the internal fuel passage system and is in communication with the plurality of inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel. The outlet opening is configured to distribute the excess fuel out of the internal fuel passage system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application generally relates to intake manifolds for internal combustion engine systems. Background Technology

[0002] Optimizing the arrangement of fuel exhaust pipes in the intake manifold has a significant impact on the cost of manufacturing the intake manifold. More specifically, many engines today include redundant components due to separate fuel exhaust lines (which include separate connectors assembled to each fuel exhaust outlet). For example, various designs separate the fuel exhaust lines from the intake manifold, which increases the complexity of the manufacturing process and assembly. Summary of the Invention

[0003] At least one aspect relates to an intake manifold. The intake manifold includes an intake manifold bend. The intake manifold includes a distribution portion in fluid communication with the intake manifold bend. The intake manifold includes a flange extending radially outward from the distribution portion. The flange includes an internal fuel passage system. The internal fuel passage system includes a first end and a second end. The internal fuel passage system includes a plurality of inlet openings distributed between the first and second ends of the internal fuel passage system. The plurality of inlet openings are configured to receive excess fuel from a plurality of fuel injectors. The internal fuel passage system includes an outlet opening between the first and second ends of the internal fuel passage system and communicates with the plurality of inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel. The outlet opening is configured to distribute excess fuel out of the internal fuel passage system.

[0004] In some embodiments, the intake manifold further includes: a first opening defined by a first end of the internal fuel passage system; and a first plug connected to the first end of the internal fuel passage system such that the first opening is sealed.

[0005] In some embodiments, the intake manifold further includes: a second opening defined by a second end of the internal fuel passage system; and a second plug connected to the second end of the internal fuel passage system such that the second opening is sealed.

[0006] In some embodiments, the intake manifold further includes: a first opening defined by a first end of the internal fuel passage system, the first opening being internally threaded; and an externally threaded first plug including a sealing member, the externally threaded first plug being threadedly engaged with the first opening of the internal fuel passage system such that the sealing member engages with a flat circumferential end face of the first end of the internal fuel passage system.

[0007] In some embodiments, the intake manifold further includes: a second opening defined by a second end of the internal fuel passage system, the second opening being internally threaded; and an externally threaded second plug including a sealing member, the externally threaded second plug being threadedly connected to the second opening of the internal fuel passage system such that the sealing member of the externally threaded second plug engages with a flat circumferential end face of the second end of the internal fuel passage system.

[0008] In some embodiments, the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system each have substantially the same diameter.

[0009] In some embodiments, the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system are six inlet openings.

[0010] In some embodiments, the intake manifold further includes an exhaust line that is fluidly connected to the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system.

[0011] In some embodiments, the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is located between two of the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system.

[0012] In some embodiments, the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system are six inlet openings, and the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is located between the first inlet opening and the sixth inlet opening.

[0013] At least one aspect relates to an internal combustion engine system. The internal combustion engine system includes a combustion chamber. The combustion chamber includes one or more cylinders and one or more pistons. Each of the one or more cylinders may include a cylinder head. Each cylinder head may include an intake port. Each of the one or more pistons may correspond to one of the one or more cylinders. Each of the one or more pistons is coupled to a connecting rod and a crankshaft. The internal combustion engine system includes one or more fuel injectors coupled to the cylinder head. The one or more fuel injectors are configured to supply fuel to the cylinder head via the intake ports. The internal combustion engine system includes an intake manifold. The intake manifold includes an intake manifold bend. The intake manifold includes a distribution portion in fluid communication with the intake manifold bend and in fluid communication with the intake port of each cylinder in the combustion chamber. The distribution portion is configured to supply air to the cylinder head via the intake ports. The intake manifold includes a flange extending radially outward from the distribution portion. The flange includes an internal fuel passage system. The internal fuel passage system includes a first end and a second end. The internal fuel passage system includes multiple inlet openings distributed between the first and second ends, each inlet opening communicating with one or more fuel injectors in a manner that receives excess fuel. The internal fuel passage system includes an outlet opening between the first and second ends, communicating with the multiple inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel. The outlet opening is configured to displace excess fuel from the internal fuel passage system.

[0014] At least one aspect relates to an internal combustion engine system comprising:

[0015] One or more cylinders, each cylinder including a cylinder head with an air intake port;

[0016] One or more pistons, each piston corresponding to one of the one or more cylinders, each of the one or more pistons being connected to a connecting rod and a crankshaft;

[0017] One or more fuel injectors, connected to the cylinder head, configured to supply fuel to the cylinder head via the intake port; and

[0018] Intake manifold, the intake manifold comprising:

[0019] The curved section of the intake manifold;

[0020] A distribution section, fluidly connected to the bend in the intake manifold and to the intake port of the cylinder head of each of the one or more cylinders, is configured to supply air to the cylinder head via the intake port; and

[0021] A flange extending radially outward from the dispensing portion, the flange having an internal fuel passage system including a first end and a second end, and within the inner...

[0022] Limited by the fuel passage system:

[0023] Multiple inlet openings are distributed between the first and second ends of the internal fuel passage system, each inlet opening communicating with one or more fuel injectors in a manner that receives excess fuel.

[0024] An outlet opening is located between the first and second ends of the internal fuel passage system and communicates with the plurality of inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel. The outlet opening is configured to distribute excess fuel out of the internal fuel passage system.

[0025] In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine system further includes a fuel injection system comprising: a fuel pump configured to receive and pressurize a portion of fuel from a fuel source; a common fuel rail in communication with the fuel pump to receive pressurized fuel; and one or more fuel injectors connected to the common fuel rail in communication with the common fuel rail to receive pressurized fuel.

[0026] In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine system further includes one or more fuel injector outlets located between the fuel injection system and the plurality of inlet openings, the one or more fuel injector outlets being in communication with the fuel injection system to receive excess fuel and with the plurality of inlet openings to provide excess fuel.

[0027] In some embodiments, the plurality of inlet openings includes six inlet openings, each of which is connected to one of the one or more fuel injectors in a manner that receives excess fuel.

[0028] In some embodiments, the one or more fuel injectors are two fuel injectors.

[0029] In some embodiments, the internal fuel passage system of the flange further includes a second outlet opening located between the first end and the second end of the internal fuel passage system, the second outlet opening communicating with the plurality of inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel, and the second outlet opening being configured to distribute excess fuel from the internal fuel passage system.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system are six inlet openings, and the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is located between the first inlet opening and the sixth inlet opening.

[0031] In some embodiments, the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system have substantially the same diameter; and the diameter of the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is larger than the diameter of the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system.

[0032] In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine system further includes an exhaust line fluidly connected to an outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system, the exhaust line being in communication with the outlet opening in a manner that receives excess fuel and being configured to redistribute excess fuel to a plurality of additional components.

[0033] In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine system further includes an exhaust line fluidly connected to an outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system, the exhaust line being in communication with the outlet opening in a manner that receives excess fuel and being configured to supply excess fuel to a storage tank. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an internal combustion engine system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0035] Figure 2 A perspective view of an intake manifold system having an internal fuel passage system according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted.

[0036] Figure 3 Depicting Figure 2 The image depicts an external view of the intake manifold system.

[0037] Figure 4 Depicting Figure 2 A perspective view of the fuel passage system inside the intake manifold.

[0038] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of a fuel injection system and an engine according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The following is a more detailed description of various concepts and implementations related to methods, apparatus, and systems for improving the manufacturing process of intake manifold systems within engine systems. Various embodiments of the invention provide the benefit of eliminating the need to manually connect each fuel exhaust line from the fuel injection system to the intake manifold via quick-connect couplings. For example, the various embodiments presented herein can eliminate the need for separate connections to each fuel exhaust line, as the fuel exhaust system can be internally integrated into the intake manifold during manufacturing. Implementations of the various embodiments presented herein reduce the equipment required for fuel exhaust components, such as quick-connect couplings, thereby reducing costs. Furthermore, implementations of the various embodiments presented herein can reduce manufacturing and assembly time, which further reduces costs.

[0040] Before turning to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the description or shown in the drawings. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0041] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, systems and methods are provided for improving the structure of an intake manifold for integration with an internal fuel passage system. According to various embodiments, a fuel discharge gun integrated into the intake manifold can provide a simpler layout and assembly, thereby saving costs, manufacturing time, and assembly time.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary internal combustion engine system 100. The internal combustion engine system 100 includes an engine 101. The engine 101 can be any type of internal combustion engine and can include, for example, a diesel engine, a gasoline engine, a natural gas engine, a dual-fuel engine, etc.

[0043] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes one or more cylinders 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d, 102e, and 102f, collectively referred to as cylinders 102. Cylinders 102 may be part of engine 101. The number of cylinders 102 may be any number suitable for an engine. The arrangement of cylinders 102 may be any suitable arrangement for an engine, although... Figure 1 The example embodiment depicts six cylinders arranged in a straight line.

[0044] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes a turbine 122, a shaft 123, and a compressor 124, which together form a turbocharger 130. The turbine 122 may have a separate turbine housing to receive exhaust gas flow from at least one exhaust duct. The turbine 122 is connected to the compressor 124 via the shaft 123. The turbocharger 130 can be any suitable dual-inlet turbocharger, including but not limited to symmetrical wastegate turbochargers, asymmetrical wastegate turbochargers, and variable geometry turbochargers. In some embodiments, the turbocharger 130 may be a combination of two or more turbochargers.

[0045] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes a first exhaust gas duct 108 and a second exhaust gas duct 116. A turbine 122 receives exhaust gas flow from both the first exhaust gas duct 108 and the second exhaust gas duct 116. The turbine 122 is driven by the exhaust gas flow received from the first exhaust gas duct 108 and the second exhaust gas duct 116. For example, the turbine 122 may use the exhaust gas flow from the first exhaust gas duct 108 and the second exhaust gas duct 116 to drive a compressor 124 via a shaft 123.

[0046] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes an air intake duct 112. A compressor 124 compresses fresh air 126 from the ambient environment into the air intake duct 112. The air intake duct 112 is line-connected to an air intake cooler 120. For example, the air intake cooler 120 cools the compressed fresh air supplied by the compressor 124.

[0047] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes an intake duct 104 and an intake manifold 106 for receiving fluid. For example, a charge duct 112 directs a flow of (cooled) fresh air to the intake duct 104, which in turn provides a flow of fresh air to the intake manifold 106. The intake manifold 106 provides fluid to the cylinders 102. For example, the intake manifold 106 provides a flow of fresh air to the cylinders 102.

[0048] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes a fuel injection system 105. The following is... Figure 5 The example fuel injection system 105 is discussed in the context of this discussion.

[0049] Cylinder 102 can supply exhaust gas flow to one or more exhaust ducts (e.g., first exhaust duct 108 and second exhaust duct 116). In some embodiments, cylinder 102 can be connected to an exhaust manifold that receives exhaust gas from cylinder 102 and directs the exhaust gas to the first exhaust duct 108 and second exhaust duct 116. In some embodiments, the first exhaust duct 108 and second exhaust duct 116 can be connected to cylinder 102 without having an exhaust manifold. The first exhaust duct 108 can be connected to a first group of cylinders 102 (e.g., cylinders 102a, 102b, and 102c). The second exhaust duct 116 can be connected to a second group of cylinders 102 (e.g., 102d, 102e, and 102f).

[0050] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) duct 110. The EGR duct 110 is fluidly connected to a first exhaust gas duct 108. For example, the first exhaust gas duct 108 can direct a portion of the exhaust gas flow from the cylinder 102 to the EGR duct 110. The first exhaust gas duct 108 can also direct another portion of the exhaust gas flow from the cylinder 102 to the turbine 122. A second exhaust gas duct 116 can direct all the exhaust gas flow from the cylinder 102 to the turbine 122. The EGR duct 110 can receive exhaust gas flow from the first exhaust gas duct 108 and direct it into the intake duct 104.

[0051] The internal combustion engine system 100 includes an EGR valve 114. For example, the EGR valve 114 may be configured to interface with an EGR duct 110. In various embodiments, the EGR valve 114 is an on / off valve controlled by a controller (not shown) to fully open to allow EGR flow or fully close to block EGR flow. The exhaust gas flow in the EGR duct 110 and the fresh air flow in the intake duct 112 combine to form the intake air flow entering the intake duct 104. The intake air flow is directed into the intake manifold 106.

[0052] In some embodiments, the internal combustion engine system 100 includes a mixer 128 configured to interface with an intake duct 104 for mixing a combined flow of fresh air and exhaust gas. The mixed intake airflow is further directed into an intake manifold 106. The intake manifold 106 is connected to a cylinder 102 and can direct the mixed intake airflow to the cylinder 102.

[0053] Figure 2 and Figure 3 A perspective view of an intake manifold system 200 according to an exemplary embodiment is depicted. Figure 2 A diagram including the internal fuel passage system 220 within the intake manifold 106. Figure 3 Depicting Figure 2The image shows an external view only of the intake manifold system 200. The intake manifold 106 includes an intake manifold bend 205. The intake manifold bend 205 is in fluid communication with the EGR duct 110 and the inflation duct 112. For example, the intake manifold bend 205 may receive exhaust gas flow from the EGR duct 110 and / or fresh air flow from the inflation duct 112.

[0054] The intake manifold 106 includes a distribution section 210. The distribution section 210 is in fluid communication with the intake manifold bend 205. For example, the distribution section 210 may receive a fresh air flow from the intake manifold bend 205 and / or a mixture of fresh air flow and exhaust gas flow from the intake manifold bend 205.

[0055] The intake manifold 106 includes a flange 215. The flange 215 extends radially outward from the distribution portion 210. The flange 215 does not necessarily have fluid communication with the distribution portion 210. For example, the flange 215 may be fluidly isolated from the distribution portion 210.

[0056] The intake manifold 106 includes an internal fuel passage system 220. The internal fuel passage system 220 may be part of a flange 215, i.e., the flange 215 may have the internal fuel passage system 220. The internal fuel passage system 220 is in fluid communication with other components of the internal combustion engine system 100. The internal fuel passage system 220 may be made of the same material as the intake manifold 106. For example, the internal fuel passage system 220 may be made of steel. The internal fuel passage system 220 does not necessarily have to be made of the same material as the intake manifold 106. For example, the intake manifold 106 may be made of steel, while the internal fuel passage system 220 may be made of a high-performance polymer or composite material.

[0057] The internal fuel passage system 220 includes a first end 225. A first opening 228 is defined by the first end 225 of the internal fuel passage system 220. The internal fuel passage system 220 includes a second end 230. A second opening 232 is defined by the second end 230 of the internal fuel passage system 220. The intake manifold 106 may be manufactured together with the internal fuel passage system 220. For example, the flange 215 may have the internal fuel passage system 220 including the first end 225 and the second end 230. Furthermore, the internal fuel passage system 220 may be manufactured with the first opening 228 and the second opening 232, allowing fluid or other substances to pass through the openings 228 and 232.

[0058] The internal fuel passage system 220 includes one or more inlet openings 235a, 235b, 235c, 235d, 235e, and 235f, collectively referred to as inlet openings 235. For example, the internal fuel passage system 220 may include multiple inlet openings 235. The inlet openings 235 are distributed between a first end 225 and a second end 230 of the internal fuel passage system 220. The number of inlet openings 235 can be any number suitable for an engine. For example, the number of inlet openings 235 can be six. For example, the number of inlet openings 235 can be the same as the number of cylinders 102. The inlet openings 235 are in fluid receiving communication with other components of the internal combustion engine system 100. For example, multiple inlet openings 235 can be configured to receive excess fuel from multiple fuel injectors, as discussed in more detail below. Each inlet opening 235 may include a fuel receiving line 240. The fuel receiving line 240 is in fluid communication with other components of the internal combustion engine system 100, as discussed in more detail below.

[0059] The internal fuel passage system 220 includes one or more outlet openings 245. For example, the internal fuel passage system 220 may include one outlet opening 245. The outlet opening 245 is located between a first end 225 and a second end 230 of the internal fuel passage system 220. For example, the outlet 245 may be located between a first inlet 235a and a sixth inlet 235f. The outlet 245 is in fluid receiving communication with the inlet 235. For example, the outlet opening 245 communicates with multiple inlet openings 235 in a manner that receives excess fuel. The internal fuel passage system 220 may include two outlet openings 245. For example, both outlet openings 245 may be located between the first end 225 and the second end 230. For example, both outlet openings 245 may be located between the first inlet opening 235a and the sixth inlet opening 235f. For example, a second outlet opening 245 may be located between the first end 225 and the second end 230 of the internal fuel passage system 220. Both outlet openings 245 are in fluid receiving communication with the inlet opening 235. The outlet opening 245 is configured to distribute excess fuel from the internal fuel passage system 220, as described below.

[0060] The intake manifold system 200 includes one or more exhaust lines 250. For example, one or more exhaust lines 250 may be a single exhaust line 250. An exhaust line 250 may be part of the intake manifold 106. The exhaust line 250 is fluidly connected to an outlet opening 245 of the internal fuel passage system 220. The exhaust line 250 is in fluid-receiving communication with the outlet 245. For example, the exhaust line 250 may distribute fluid from the internal fuel passage system 220. The exhaust line 250 is fluidly connected to two outlet openings 245. The exhaust line 250 is in fluid-receiving communication with both outlet openings 245. There may be two exhaust lines 250, such that each exhaust line is in fluid-receiving communication with each of the two outlet openings 245. For example, both exhaust lines 250 may distribute fluid from the internal fuel passage system 220. For example, one or more exhaust lines 250 may supply excess fuel to the reservoir of the internal combustion engine system 100. One or more exhaust lines 250 can redistribute fluid to multiple additional components of the internal combustion engine system 100. For example, one or more exhaust lines 250 can redistribute excess fuel to multiple additional components of the internal combustion engine system 100.

[0061] During manufacturing, inlet opening 235 can be added to the internal fuel passage system 220. For example, inlet opening 235 can be drilled into the internal fuel passage system 220. Inlet openings 235 can have substantially the same diameter. For example, inlet openings 235 can be drilled into the internal fuel passage system 220 using the same drill bit, such that inlet openings 235 have substantially the same diameter. One or more outlet openings 245 can have a diameter substantially the same as inlet opening 235. One or more outlet openings 245 can have a diameter larger than the diameter of inlet opening 235. Material remaining in the internal fuel passage system 220 after inlet opening 235 is drilled can be discharged through first opening 228 and second opening 232.

[0062] Figure 4 Depicting Figure 2A perspective view of an internal fuel passage system 220 within an intake manifold 106. The internal fuel passage system 220 includes a first plug 305 and a second plug 310. The first plug 305 is connected to a first opening 228 at a first end 225 of the internal fuel passage system 220, such that the first opening 228 is sealed. The second plug 310 is connected to a second opening 232 at a second end 230 of the internal fuel passage system 220, such that the second opening 232 is sealed. For example, the first plug 305 and the second plug 310 may be connected to the first opening 228 and the second opening 232, respectively, such that the first opening 228 and the second opening 232 are sealed. For example, the first opening 228 and the second opening 232 may be sealed so that fluid (e.g., excess fuel) does not leak or leave from them. The first plug 305 and the second plug 310 may include sealing members, such as O-ring seals. The sealing members of the first plug 305 and the second plug 310 may engage with the flat circumferential end faces of the first end 225 and the second end 230 of the internal fuel passage system 220. For example, the sealing members of the first plug 305 and the second plug 310 can engage with the flat circumferential end faces of the first end 225 and the second end 230 to provide a more effective way to prevent fluid leakage from the first opening 228 and the second opening 232.

[0063] The first plug 305 and the second plug 310 can be threadedly connected to the first opening 228 and the second opening 232 of the internal fuel passage system 220, respectively, such that the sealing members engage with the flat circumferential end faces of the first end 225 and the second end 230 of the internal fuel passage system 220, respectively. For example, the first plug 305 and the second plug 310 can be externally threaded, and the first opening 228 and the second opening 232 can be internally threaded. In this case, the first plug 305 and the first opening 228, as well as the second plug 310 and the second opening 232, can be threadedly connected by aligning threads and twisting plugs 305, 310. The first plug 305 and the second plug 310 do not necessarily need to be threaded. For example, the first plug 305 and the second plug 310 can be connected to the first opening 228 and the second opening 232 by mating over the first end 225 and the second end 230. For example, the first plug 305 and the second plug 310 can overlap the first end 225 and the second end 230, respectively, thereby preventing fluid from flowing out of the first opening 228 and the second opening 232.

[0064] The first plug 305 and the second plug 310 are respectively connected to the first opening 228 and the second opening 232. For example, after the inlet opening 235 has been added or drilled and debris has been removed from the internal fuel passage system 220, the first plug 305 and the second plug 310 can be connected to the first opening 228 and the second opening 232, respectively.

[0065] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of a fuel injection system 105 and an engine 101 according to an exemplary embodiment. The fuel injection system 105 and the engine 101 may be... Figure 1 It is part of the internal combustion engine system 100. The fuel injection system 105 can deliver fuel to the combustion chamber to promote combustion in order to power the engine 101.

[0066] The fuel injection system 105 includes a controller 405 and a pressure sensor 417. The pressure sensor 417 can provide a pressure measurement signal. The controller 405 can control the fuel injection rate of the fuel injection system 105. For example, the controller 405 can determine the amount of fuel injected by the fuel injection system 105. For example, the controller 405 can determine the amount of fuel injected into the engine 101 based on the pressure measurement signal provided by the pressure sensor 417. Based on the determined amount of fuel injected into the engine 101, the controller 405 can determine what amount of fuel injection is appropriate to meet the needs of the engine 101 and control the fuel injection system 105 to inject the appropriate amount of fuel into the engine 101.

[0067] The fuel injection system 105 includes at least one fuel pump 410. For example, the fuel injection system 105 may include three fuel pumps 410a, 410b, and 410c. The number of fuel pumps 410 can be any number suitable for the engine. The fuel pumps 410 can be high-pressure pumps. For example, the fuel pumps 410 can be configured to receive and pressurize a portion of the fuel from a fuel source.

[0068] Fuel injection system 105 includes a common fuel rail 415 and one or more fuel injectors 420a-420f (collectively referred to as fuel injectors 420). The common fuel rail 415 is in fluid receiving communication with fuel pump 410. For example, the common fuel rail 415 may be in communication with fuel pump 410 to receive pressurized fuel. The common fuel rail 415 is in fluid supply communication with fuel injectors 420. For example, fuel injectors 420 may be in communication with common fuel rail 415 to receive pressurized fuel. Fuel injectors 420 are connected to common fuel rail 415. For example, fuel pump 410 may supply pressurized fuel to fuel injectors 420 via common fuel rail 415. Fuel injection system 105 does not necessarily include common fuel rail 415. For example, fuel injectors 420 may be in direct fluid receiving communication with fuel pump 410. For example, fuel pump 410 may supply pressurized fuel to fuel injectors 420.

[0069] Fuel injection system 105 includes one or more fuel injector outlets 425. One or more fuel injector outlets 425 are located between fuel injection system 105 and inlet opening 235. One or more fuel injector outlets 425 communicate with fuel injection system 105 in a manner that receives excess fuel. For example, one or more fuel injector outlets 425 may receive fuel from fuel injector 420. One or more fuel injector outlets 425 communicate with inlet opening 235 in a manner that provides excess fuel. For example, one or more fuel injector outlets 425 may provide fuel from fuel injector 420 to inlet opening 235. Inlet opening 235 is in fluid receiving communication with other components of internal combustion engine system 100. For example, inlet opening 235 may receive excess fuel from fuel injector 420.

[0070] The number of fuel injector outlets 425 can be any number suitable for the engine. For example, the number of fuel injector outlets 425 can match the number of inlet openings 235. For example, the number of fuel injector outlets 425 can match the number of fuel injectors 420. For example, the number of fuel injector outlets 425 can match the number of inlet openings 235 and the number of fuel injectors 420. For example, the number of fuel injector outlets 425, the number of inlet openings 235, and the number of fuel injectors 420 can be six. Furthermore, each of the six inlet openings 235a-235f can communicate with one of the fuel injectors 420a-420f in a manner that receives excess fuel. Furthermore, each of the six inlet openings 235a-235f can communicate with two of the fuel injectors 420a-420f in a manner that receives excess fuel, thus having twelve fuel injectors 420.

[0071] Engine 101 includes one or more pistons 430a-430c, collectively referred to as pistons 430. Each of cylinders 102 and pistons 430 is part of a combustion chamber. For example, there may be three combustion chambers, each including cylinder 102 and piston 430. Pistons 430 may reciprocate under the power provided by the fuel combustion chamber, thereby causing crankshaft 440 to rotate via one or more corresponding connecting rods 435a-435c (collectively referred to as connecting rods 435). Connecting rods 435 connect pistons 430 to crankshaft 440. Cylinders 102 may each include a cylinder head (not shown) and an intake port (not shown). Each cylinder 102 may include a cylinder head at one end and may be open at the other end. For example, cylinder 102 may be open at one end to allow connecting rods 435 to oscillate freely. Cylinders 102 may be made of cast iron, steel, or aluminum.

[0072] Fuel injector 420 can deliver fuel to cylinder 102 during a specific time period of an engine cycle. For example, fuel injector 420 can deliver fuel to cylinder 102 during a specific time period of an engine cycle guided by controller 405. Each of fuel injectors 420a-420f can correspond to each of cylinders 102a-102f and each of pistons. Each cylinder 102 can include a cylinder head. Each cylinder 102 can include an intake port. The intake port can be in fluid supply communication with the cylinder head. Each fuel injector 420a-420f can be coupled to and in fluid supply communication with each cylinder head of each cylinder 102a-102f, respectively. For example, each fuel injector 420a-420f can supply fuel to each cylinder head of each cylinder 102a-102f, respectively, via each intake port of cylinder 102a-102f.

[0073] As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with common and accepted usage by those skilled in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure relates. Those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will understand that these terms are intended to allow for the description of certain features described and claimed, without limiting the scope of those features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Therefore, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that non-substantial or irrelevant modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure set forth in the appended claims.

[0074] It should be noted that, as the term “exemplary” and its variations are intended to indicate in this document, such embodiments are possible examples, representations or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to mean that such embodiments must be special or excellent examples).

[0075] As used herein, the term "connection" and its variations refer to the direct or indirect linking of two components to each other. This connection can be fixed (e.g., permanent or fixed) or movable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such a connection can be achieved by directly linking two components to each other, by linking two components to each other using one or more separate intermediate components, or by linking two components to each other using an intermediate component that forms a single unit with one of the two components. If "connection" or its variations are modified by additional terms (e.g., direct connection), the general definition of "connection" provided above is modified by the common linguistic meaning of the additional terms (e.g., "direct connection" means the linking of two components without any separate intermediate components), resulting in a narrower definition than the general definition of "connection" provided above. This connection can be mechanical, electrical, or fluid. For example, circuit A being "connected" to circuit B can mean that circuit A is directly connected to circuit B (i.e., without intermediate circuits) or indirectly connected to circuit B (e.g., through one or more intermediate circuits).

[0076] Although the accompanying drawings and descriptions may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of these steps may differ from what is depicted and described unless otherwise specified above. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified above, two or more steps may be performed simultaneously or partially concurrently. For example, such variations may depend on the chosen software and hardware system and the designer's choices. All these variations are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0077] For illustrative and descriptive purposes, the foregoing description of embodiments has been presented. This invention is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit it to the precise forms disclosed, and modifications and variations can be made in accordance with or derived from the foregoing teachings. These embodiments were chosen and described to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, enabling those skilled in the art to utilize various embodiments and modify them to suit specific intended uses. Other substitutions, modifications, alterations, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

[0078] Therefore, this disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. Therefore, the scope of this disclosure is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All modifications within the equivalent meaning and scope of the claims should be included within their scope.

Claims

1. An intake manifold, comprising: The curved section of the intake manifold; A distribution section in fluid communication with the curved portion of the intake manifold; and A flange extending radially outward from the dispensing portion, the flange having an internal fuel passage system including a first end and a second end, and defining the following within the internal fuel passage system: A first opening defined by the first end and a second opening defined by the second end, wherein the first opening and the second opening are in fluid communication; Multiple inlet openings are distributed between the first opening and the second opening of the internal fuel passage system, and the multiple inlet openings are configured to receive excess fuel from multiple fuel injectors. and An outlet opening is located between the first and second openings of the internal fuel passage system and communicates with the plurality of inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel. The outlet opening is configured to distribute excess fuel out of the internal fuel passage system.

2. The intake manifold according to claim 1, further comprising: A first plug is connected to the first end of the internal fuel passage system, thereby sealing the first opening.

3. The intake manifold according to claim 2, further comprising: The second plug is connected to the second end of the internal fuel passage system, thereby sealing the second opening.

4. The intake manifold according to claim 1, wherein, The first opening defined by the first end of the internal fuel passage system is internally threaded, and also includes... A first plug with an external thread, comprising a sealing member, the first plug with the external thread being threadedly connected to the first opening of the internal fuel passage system such that the sealing member engages with a flat circumferential end face of the first end of the internal fuel passage system.

5. The intake manifold according to claim 4, in, The second opening defined by the second end of the internal fuel passage system is internally threaded, and further includes: A second plug with external threads, comprising a sealing member, the second plug with external threads being threadedly connected to the second open end of the internal fuel passage system such that the sealing member of the second plug with external threads engages with a flat circumferential end face of the second end of the internal fuel passage system.

6. The intake manifold according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system each have substantially the same diameter.

7. The intake manifold according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The internal fuel passage system has six inlet openings.

8. The intake manifold according to any one of claims 1-5, further comprising an exhaust line fluidly connected to the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system.

9. The intake manifold according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is located between two of the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system.

10. The intake manifold according to any one of claims 1-5, wherein, The internal fuel passage system has six inlet openings, and the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is located between the first inlet opening and the sixth inlet opening.

11. An internal combustion engine system, comprising: One or more cylinders, each cylinder including a cylinder head with an air intake port; One or more pistons, each piston corresponding to one of the one or more cylinders, each of the one or more pistons being connected to a connecting rod and a crankshaft; One or more fuel injectors connected to the cylinder head, the fuel injectors being configured to supply fuel to the cylinder head via the intake port; and Intake manifold, the intake manifold comprising: The curved section of the intake manifold; A distribution section, fluidly connected to the bend in the intake manifold and to the intake port of the cylinder head of each of the one or more cylinders, is configured to supply air to the cylinder head via the intake port; and A flange extending radially outward from the dispensing portion, the flange having an internal fuel passage system including a first end and a second end, and defining the following within the internal fuel passage system: A first opening defined by the first end and a second opening defined by the second end, wherein the first opening and the second opening are in fluid communication; Multiple inlet openings are distributed between the first and second ends of the internal fuel passage system, each inlet opening communicating with one or more fuel injectors in a manner that receives excess fuel. An outlet opening is located between the first and second openings of the internal fuel passage system and communicates with the plurality of inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel. The outlet opening is configured to distribute excess fuel out of the internal fuel passage system.

12. The internal combustion engine system according to claim 11, further comprising: Fuel injection system, comprising: A fuel pump configured to receive and pressurize a portion of the fuel from a fuel source; A common fuel rail, connected to the fuel pump in a manner that receives pressurized fuel; and The one or more fuel injectors are connected to the common fuel rail, and the one or more fuel injectors are in communication with the common fuel rail in a manner that receives pressurized fuel.

13. The internal combustion engine system according to claim 12, further comprising: One or more fuel injector outlets are located between the fuel injection system and the plurality of inlet openings, the one or more fuel injector outlets being in communication with the fuel injection system in order to receive excess fuel and with the plurality of inlet openings in order to supply excess fuel.

14. The internal combustion engine system according to claim 11, wherein, The plurality of inlet openings includes six inlet openings, each of which is connected to one of the one or more fuel injectors in a manner that receives excess fuel.

15. The internal combustion engine system according to claim 11, wherein, The one or more fuel injectors are two fuel injectors.

16. The internal combustion engine system according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The internal fuel passage system of the flange also includes: A second outlet opening is located between the first and second ends of the internal fuel passage system. The second outlet opening is connected to the plurality of inlet openings in a manner that receives excess fuel. The second outlet opening is configured to distribute excess fuel out of the internal fuel passage system.

17. The internal combustion engine system according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein, The internal fuel passage system has six inlet openings, and the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is located between the first inlet opening and the sixth inlet opening.

18. The internal combustion engine system according to any one of claims 11-15, wherein: The plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system have substantially the same diameter; and The diameter of the outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system is larger than the diameter of the plurality of inlet openings of the internal fuel passage system.

19. The internal combustion engine system according to any one of claims 11-15, further comprising an exhaust line fluidly connected to an outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system, the exhaust line being in communication with the outlet opening in a manner to receive excess fuel and configured to redistribute excess fuel to a plurality of additional components.

20. The internal combustion engine system according to any one of claims 11-15, further comprising an exhaust line fluidly connected to an outlet opening of the internal fuel passage system, the exhaust line being connected to the outlet opening in a manner to receive excess fuel and configured to supply excess fuel to a storage tank.

Images