Oil tank isolation valve, oil tank system and vehicle

Abstract

The invention discloses an oil tank isolating valve, an oil tank system and a vehicle, and relates to the technical field of vehicle manufacturing, the oil tank isolating valve comprises a valve body, the valve body is provided with an oil tank communicating port and a carbon tank communicating port, and a valve cavity communicating between the oil tank communicating port and the carbon tank communicating port is formed in the valve body; the valve plate assembly is installed in the valve cavity and used for normally cutting off the valve cavity, and the valve plate assembly is arranged to enable the valve cavity to be communicated when the pressure of one of the oil tank communication port and the carbon passing tank port exceeds a set pressure value compared with the pressure of the other one of the oil tank communication port and the carbon passing tank port. And the actuator is used for selectively pushing the valve plate assembly to move, so that the valve cavity is selectively communicated. According to the oil tank isolation valve, the pressure adjusting requirements in different scenes can be met, compared with an electromagnetic isolation valve, the use process is safer, more stable and more reliable, and the overall arrangement cost of the oil tank isolation valve is low.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle manufacturing technology, and in particular to a fuel tank isolation valve, a fuel tank system, and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] During vehicle refueling, the fuel tank isolation valve can depressurize the high-pressure fuel tank, thereby opening the fuel tank cap to facilitate refueling. In related technologies, electromagnetic isolation valves are prone to problems such as signal loss, battery power failure, and electromagnetic interference, which can prevent the fuel tank from depressurizing. Furthermore, their production and maintenance costs are relatively high, indicating room for improvement. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art. To this end, this invention proposes a tank isolation valve, in which the valve plate assembly can control the pressure release or pressure maintenance within the tank, and is safe, stable, reliable, and low in cost.

[0004] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a tank isolation valve includes: a valve body having a tank connection port and a carbon canister port, wherein a valve cavity is formed within the valve body communicating between the tank connection port and the carbon canister port; a valve plate assembly installed within the valve cavity and used to normally isolate the valve cavity, wherein the valve plate assembly is configured to open the valve cavity when the pressure at one of the tank connection port and the carbon canister port exceeds a set pressure value compared to the other; and an actuator for selectively actuating the valve plate assembly to selectively open the valve cavity.

[0005] According to the embodiments of the present invention, the oil tank isolation valve uses a mechanical valve plate assembly in conjunction with an actuator to achieve pressure balance regulation of the oil tank, which can realize the functions of pressure holding, pressure relief and negative pressure replenishment. In particular, it can realize the functions of overpressure relief and refueling pressure relief, which is conducive to meeting the pressure regulation needs in different scenarios. Compared with electromagnetic isolation valves, it is safer, more stable and reliable in use, and the overall installation cost of the oil tank isolation valve is lower.

[0006] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tank isolation valve includes a valve plate assembly comprising a first valve plate and a second valve plate, both of which are movably mounted within the valve cavity;

[0007] Specifically, when the pressure at the oil tank connection port exceeds a first pressure value compared to the pressure at the carbon canister port, the first valve plate presses against the second valve plate and moves together in a first direction to open the valve chamber; and when the pressure at the carbon canister port exceeds a second pressure value compared to the pressure at the oil tank connection port, the first valve plate moves in a second direction to separate from the second valve plate to open the valve chamber, wherein the first direction is opposite to the second direction.

[0008] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tank isolation valve further includes a first elastic member and a second elastic member, wherein the first elastic member is used to apply an elastic force to the first valve plate to move in the first direction, and the second elastic member is used to apply an elastic force to the second valve plate to move in the second direction.

[0009] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tank isolation valve has a first limiting step surface in the valve cavity, and the second valve plate is adapted to press against the first limiting step surface under the action of the second elastic member, and the first valve plate is adapted to press against the side of the second valve plate facing the first limiting step surface under the action of the first elastic member.

[0010] According to some embodiments of the present invention, in the tank isolation valve, the outer diameter of the second valve plate is larger than the outer diameter of the first valve plate, and the second valve plate is provided with a central communication port directly opposite the first valve plate;

[0011] Wherein, the first valve plate is adapted to block the central connection port under the force of the first elastic member, and the first valve plate is adapted to move away from the second valve plate under the pressure of the carbon canister port, so that the central connection port is open and connected between the oil tank connection port and the carbon canister port.

[0012] According to some embodiments of the oil tank isolation valve of the present invention, the outer diameter of the first elastic element is smaller than the outer diameter of the second elastic element;

[0013] And / or, the elastic coefficient of the first elastic element is less than the elastic coefficient of the second elastic element.

[0014] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tank isolation valve includes a valve cavity comprising a first sub-cavity and a second sub-cavity that are interconnected. The tank connection port is connected to the first sub-cavity, and the second sub-cavity is connected to the carbon canister port. The second elastic member and the second valve plate are both disposed in the second sub-cavity. The first elastic member and the first valve plate are both disposed in the first sub-cavity and are adapted to extend toward the second sub-cavity to act on the second valve plate.

[0015] According to some embodiments of the present invention, in the oil tank isolation valve, the oil tank connection port, the first sub-cavity and the second sub-cavity are sequentially connected in the first direction, the second sub-cavity is connected to the carbon canister port in a third direction, and the third direction intersects with the first direction.

[0016] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tank isolation valve includes an actuator locking pin, which is adapted to drive the first valve plate and the second valve plate to move together in the first direction when moving in the first direction, so as to connect the valve chamber.

[0017] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tank isolation valve further includes a third elastic element, which presses against the actuator locking pin and is used to push the actuator locking pin to move and reset along the second direction.

[0018] According to some embodiments of the present invention, in the oil tank isolation valve, the outer peripheral wall of the actuator locking pin is formed with a second limiting step surface, and one end of the third elastic member abuts against the valve body and the other end abuts against the second limiting step surface;

[0019] And / or, the third elastic element is sleeved outside the actuator locking pin.

[0020] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the tank isolation valve includes an actuator locking pin comprising a drive section that passes through the second valve plate and the first valve plate in sequence. The outer peripheral wall of the drive section has a limiting protrusion located on the side of the first valve plate opposite to the second valve plate. The limiting protrusion is used to push the first valve plate to drive the second valve plate to move together.

[0021] The present invention also proposes a fuel tank system.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a fuel tank system includes a fuel tank body and a fuel tank isolation valve of any of the above embodiments, wherein the inner cavity of the fuel tank body is connected to the fuel tank communication port.

[0023] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the fuel tank system further includes a carbon canister, the inner cavity of which is in communication with the carbon canister opening.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the fuel tank system of the present invention, the fuel tank body is further connected to a fuel tank cap;

[0025] The actuator is configured to work in conjunction with the fuel tank cap;

[0026] Alternatively, the actuator may be configured as a cap actuator for the fuel tank cap.

[0027] The present invention also proposes a vehicle.

[0028] The vehicle according to embodiments of the present invention includes a fuel tank system or a fuel tank isolation valve according to any of the above embodiments.

[0029] The vehicle, the fuel tank system, and the aforementioned fuel tank isolation valve have the same advantages over the prior art, and will not be repeated here.

[0030] Additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows and, in part, will be obvious from the description which follows, or may be learned by practice of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the oil tank isolation valve (closed state) according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the oil tank isolation valve according to an embodiment of the present invention (oil tank pressure is too high);

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the oil tank isolation valve according to an embodiment of the present invention (oil tank pressure is too low);

[0035] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the oil tank isolation valve (in the depressurization state) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure label:

[0037] Fuel tank isolation valve 100,

[0038] Valve body 1, oil tank connection port 11, carbon canister port 12, first limiting step surface 13, valve chamber 14, first sub-chamber 141, second sub-chamber 142.

[0039] Valve plate assembly 2, first valve plate 21, second valve plate 22,

[0040] Actuator 3, actuator locking pin 31, second limiting step surface 311, drive section 312, limiting protrusion 3121, first elastic element 4, second elastic element 5, third elastic element 6. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0042] In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential" and the like indicate orientations or positional relationships based on the orientations or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore cannot be understood as limiting the present invention. In addition, features defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. In the description of the present invention, unless otherwise specified, "multiple" means two or more.

[0043] In the description of the present invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified or limited, the terms "mounted," "connected," and "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, they may refer to fixed, detachable, or integral connections; mechanical or electrical connections; direct or indirect connections through an intermediate medium; and internal communication between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meanings of the above terms in the present invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0044] The following is for reference. Figure 1-Figure 4 The present invention describes a tank isolation valve 100, which can be connected to a tank to regulate the pressure inside the tank. For example, when the tank is not being refueled, the valve isolates the tank from the outside; during refueling, it connects the tank to the outside, allowing high-pressure gas inside the tank to flow to the outside, preventing excessive pressure and thus depressurizing the tank. Compared to an electromagnetic isolation valve, the tank isolation valve 100 of the present invention employs a mechanical structure, making it more reliable, stable, and safer, and also with lower installation costs.

[0045] like Figure 1 As shown, the tank isolation valve 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a valve body 1, a valve plate assembly 2, and an actuator 3.

[0046] The valve body 1 is provided with a fuel tank connection port 11 and a carbon canister port 12. The fuel tank connection port 11 can be connected to the fuel tank, allowing gas inside the fuel tank to be discharged to the outside, thus reducing the gas pressure inside the fuel tank and achieving pressure relief from the high-pressure fuel tank. Furthermore, a valve chamber 14 is formed within the valve body 1, connecting the fuel tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12. This means that fuel tank gas discharged from the fuel tank connection port 11 enters the valve chamber 14 and is ultimately discharged outside the valve body 1 through the carbon canister port 12. Therefore, by connecting the valve body 1 to the fuel tank, high-pressure gas inside the fuel tank can be discharged to the outside, achieving pressure relief from the high-pressure fuel tank. The carbon canister port 12 can be connected to the vehicle's carbon canister or other structures outside the fuel tank, and its installation method is flexible and selectable.

[0047] Valve plate assembly 2 is installed inside valve chamber 14, and valve plate assembly 2 is used to normally isolate valve chamber 14. That is, when the air pressure inside the oil tank is relatively balanced with the pressure outside the oil tank, valve plate assembly 2 keeps the oil tank connection port 11 and carbon canister port 12 in a normally isolated state, preventing external impurities or airflow from actively entering the oil tank, thus achieving relative sealing of the oil tank. In other words, when the pressure inside the oil tank is neither too high nor too low, oil tank isolation valve 100 seals the oil tank, achieving the function of maintaining pressure inside the oil tank.

[0048] The valve assembly 2 is configured to open the valve chamber 14 when the pressure of one of the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12 exceeds a set pressure value compared to the other. In other words, when the pressure between the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12 is unbalanced and the pressure difference between the two is large, the valve assembly 2 will no longer block the valve chamber 14, so that gas can flow between the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12, so that the pressure between the two tends to be equal or the pressure difference is not too large. The set pressure value can be factory set or automatically adjusted by the user.

[0049] Specifically, when the pressure at the fuel tank connection port 11 is greater than that at the carbon canister port 12, and the pressure difference between the two is greater than a set pressure value, the pressure inside the fuel tank is greater than the pressure outside the fuel tank. The valve assembly 2 can then open the valve chamber 14, connecting the fuel tank connection port 11 to the carbon canister port 12. Under the influence of the pressure difference, the gas inside the fuel tank connection port 11 can enter the carbon canister port 12 through the valve chamber 14 and flow from the carbon canister port 12 to the outside of the valve chamber 14, thus achieving automatic pressure relief inside the fuel tank. Conversely, when the pressure at the carbon canister port 12 is greater than that at the fuel tank connection port 11, the pressure inside the fuel tank is greater than that outside the fuel tank. When the pressure difference between the two ports is greater than the set pressure value, the pressure inside the oil tank connection port 11 is too low. The valve plate assembly 2 can open the valve chamber 14, connecting the oil tank connection port 11 with the carbon canister port 12. Under the action of the pressure difference, the gas outside the valve chamber 14 can enter the oil tank connection port 11 from the carbon canister port 12 through the valve chamber 14, thereby automatically adjusting the pressure of the oil tank to increase and forming negative pressure gas replenishment. As a result, a large pressure difference will not be generated between the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12, so as to ensure the balance of pressure inside and outside the oil tank.

[0050] In other words, even when not refueling, the valve assembly 2 can automatically adjust the pressure inside the oil tank to achieve automatic pressure relief or pressurization, thus preventing the pressure inside the oil tank from being too low or too high and ensuring the safe operation of the oil tank.

[0051] Actuator 3 is used to selectively actuate valve plate assembly 2 to selectively open valve chamber 14. In other words, actuator 3 can actively control the opening or closing of valve chamber 14. Specifically, during refueling, the pressure inside the tank increases rapidly. At this time, the pressure relief efficiency of valve plate assembly 2 itself is insufficient. Actuator 3 can drive valve plate assembly 2 to cause a significant change in position or angle, resulting in a larger pressure relief volume, thus meeting the higher pressure relief requirements during refueling.

[0052] Therefore, the oil tank isolation valve 100 of the present invention can meet the pressure balance requirements in different scenarios. Moreover, it adopts a mechanical pressure balance structure, which is not affected by electromagnetic interference compared with electromagnetic isolation valves. It reduces the dependence on electrical signal control, reduces the risk of signal transmission problems and hardware failures, has a simple structure, and the pressure balance process is more stable and reliable, thereby improving the safety of the oil tank isolation valve 100.

[0053] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the oil tank isolation valve 100 uses a mechanical valve plate assembly 2 in conjunction with an actuator 3 to achieve pressure balance regulation of the oil tank, which can realize the functions of pressure holding, pressure relief and negative pressure replenishment. In particular, it can realize the functions of overpressure relief and refueling pressure relief, which is conducive to meeting the pressure regulation needs in different scenarios. Compared with electromagnetic isolation valves, it is safer, more stable and reliable in use, and the overall installation cost of the oil tank isolation valve 100 is lower.

[0054] In some embodiments, the valve plate assembly 2 includes a first valve plate 21 and a second valve plate 22, both of which are movably mounted in the valve cavity 14. That is, the valve plate assembly 2 can control the opening or closing of the valve cavity 14 by adjusting the moving positions of the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 in the valve cavity 14.

[0055] Specifically, when the pressure at the fuel tank connection port 11 exceeds a first pressure value compared to the pressure at the carbon canister port 12, the first valve plate 21 presses against the second valve plate 22 and they move together in a first direction to open the valve chamber 14. Conversely, when the pressure at the carbon canister port 12 exceeds a second pressure value compared to the pressure at the fuel tank connection port 11, the first valve plate 21 moves in a second direction and separates from the second valve plate 22 to open the valve chamber 14. The first and second directions are opposite. In other words, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 can press against each other or separate from each other, both of which can selectively open the valve chamber 14.

[0056] Specifically, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the first valve plate 21 is close to the oil tank connection port 11, and the second valve plate 22 is close to the carbon canister port 12. The first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 are directly opposite each other. When the pressure at the oil tank connection port 11 is greater than that at the carbon canister port 12, and the pressure difference is large, the gas at the oil tank connection port 11 can push the first valve plate 21 against the second valve plate 22, and push the second valve plate 22 to move in the direction that makes the valve chamber 14 open, that is, move in the first direction. The pressure difference can be set to be greater than the first pressure value. At this time, the valve chamber 14 is open, and the gas in the oil tank enters the valve chamber 14 from the oil tank connection port 11 and flows out of the valve chamber 14 from the carbon canister port 12, realizing the automatic pressure relief function of the oil tank. Furthermore, when the pressure at the carbon canister opening 12 is greater than that at the oil tank connection opening 11, and the pressure difference is large, the gas at the carbon canister opening 12 can push the first valve plate 21 to move away from the second valve plate 22, that is, to move in the second direction, and the pressure difference can be set to be greater than the second pressure value. The first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 separate. At this time, the valve chamber 14 is open, and the gas outside the oil tank enters the valve chamber 14 from the carbon canister opening 12 and flows into the oil tank from the oil tank connection opening 11, realizing the negative pressure gas replenishment function of the oil tank.

[0057] Therefore, by moving the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 within the valve cavity 14, the automatic depressurization and negative pressure replenishment of the oil tank can be achieved without relying on electromagnetic signals for control. This mechanical automatic conduction or isolation results in a simpler and more reliable structure.

[0058] In some embodiments, the tank isolation valve 100 further includes a first elastic element 4 and a second elastic element 5. The first elastic element 4 is used to apply an elastic force to the first valve plate 21 to move in a first direction, and the second elastic element 5 is used to apply an elastic force to the second valve plate 22 to move in a second direction. That is, the first elastic element 4 is used to drive the first valve plate 21 away from the tank connection port 11, and the second elastic element 5 is used to drive the second valve plate 22 closer to the tank connection port 11. In other words, the first elastic element 4 and the second elastic element 5 can apply elastic forces to the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 so that the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 press against each other to control the isolation of the valve chamber 14.

[0059] In other words, when the pressure inside the tank is relatively balanced, the elastic force generated by the first elastic element 4 and the second elastic element 5 can keep the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 in a mutually pressing position. At this time, the valve chamber 14 is isolated, and the tank isolation valve 100 is in a pressure-holding state. Thus, the elastic force generated by the first elastic element 4 and the second elastic element 5 can be used to maintain the pressure inside the tank, so that the pressure inside the tank is in a relatively stable state.

[0060] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 are both disposed in the valve cavity 14. The first elastic member 4 is located between the oil tank connection port 11 and the first valve plate 21, and the second elastic member 5 is located between the second valve plate 22 and the actuator 3. Thus, the first elastic member 4 and the second elastic member 5 apply elastic forces away from the oil tank connection port 11 and the actuator 3 to the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22, respectively. Driven by the elastic force, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 press against each other in the valve cavity 14, thereby achieving the isolation of the valve cavity 14 through the valve plate assembly 2. In this way, the pressure at the oil tank connection port 11 can act on the first valve plate 21, and at the same time, the pressure at the carbon canister port 12 can act on the second valve plate 22. When the pressure difference between the pressure at the oil tank connection port 11 and the pressure at the carbon canister port 12 exceeds the set pressure value, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 overcome the elastic force of the first elastic element 4 and the second elastic element 5, and realize the conduction of the valve chamber 14, thereby realizing the automatic conduction or isolation of the valve chamber 14.

[0061] In some embodiments, the valve cavity 14 is provided with a first limiting step surface 13. The second valve plate 22 is adapted to press against the first limiting step surface 13 under the force of the second elastic member 5, and the first valve plate 21 is adapted to press against the side of the second valve plate 22 facing the first limiting step surface 13 under the force of the first elastic member 4. That is, the first limiting step surface 13 can limit the second valve plate 22 so that the second valve plate 22 cannot continue to approach the oil tank connection port 11, and when the second valve plate 22 moves to the first limiting step surface 13, it can limit the first valve plate 21.

[0062] Therefore, as Figure 1 As shown, when the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 both move to the first limiting step surface 13 and press against each other, the valve cavity 14 can be isolated. That is, in the pressure-holding state, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 are held in a position close to the first limiting step surface 13 under the combined action of the first elastic member 4 and the second elastic member 5, and the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12 are not connected.

[0063] When at least one of the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 moves away from the first limiting step surface 13, the valve chamber 14 can be opened. For example, when the oil tank pressure is too high or negative, the pressure difference between the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12 acts on the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 to overcome the elastic force of the first elastic element 4 and the second elastic element 5, thus opening the valve chamber 14. Figure 2 As shown, the pressure at the oil tank connection port 11 is greater than the pressure at the carbon canister port 12. The pressure difference between the two overcomes the elastic force of the first elastic element 4 and the second elastic element 5, and pushes the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 away from the first limiting step surface 13. The oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12 are connected, realizing the automatic overpressure relief function.

[0064] or Figure 3 As shown, the pressure at the oil tank connection port 11 is less than the pressure at the carbon canister port 12. The pressure difference between the two overcomes the elastic force of the first elastic element 4 and pushes the first valve plate 21 away from the second valve plate 22 and the first limiting step surface 13. At the same time, the second valve plate 22 is located at the first limiting step surface 13. The first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 are separated, and the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12 are connected, thus achieving the function of negative pressure gas replenishment.

[0065] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the second valve plate 22 is larger than the outer diameter of the first valve plate 21, meaning the second valve plate 22 can abut against the first limiting step surface 13, which limits the second valve plate 22. The second valve plate 22 has a central communication port opposite to the first valve plate 21, allowing gas to pass through. In other words, when the second valve plate 22 and the first limiting step surface 13 form a seal, and the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 are separated, gas can pass through the central communication port.

[0066] The first valve plate 21 is adapted to block the central connection port under the force of the first elastic member 4, and the first valve plate 21 is adapted to move away from the second valve plate 22 under the pressure of the carbon canister port 12, thereby opening the central connection port and connecting it between the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12. Thus, the first valve plate 21 can selectively open the valve chamber 14 under pressure, thereby controlling the pressure relief of the oil tank.

[0067] Specifically, such as Figure 1As shown, when the fuel tank is under pressure, the second valve plate 22 presses against the first limiting step surface 13, and the first valve plate 21 presses against the second valve plate 22 under the action of elastic force to prevent the middle connecting port from being open. When the pressure at the carbon canister opening 12 is not greater than that at the fuel tank connecting port 11, the first valve plate 21 seals the middle connecting port, and the valve cavity 14 is isolated by the first valve plate 21; while when the pressure at the carbon canister opening 12 is greater than that at the fuel tank connecting port 11 and the elastic force of the first elastic element 4, such as Figure 3 As shown, the gas can push the first valve plate 21 to move in the second direction through the central connecting port, and the second valve plate 22 gradually separates from the first valve plate 21 under the limitation of the first valve plate 21 by the first limiting step surface 13. Thus, the oil tank connecting port 11 is connected to the carbon canister port 12, and the pressure between the two can tend to be balanced.

[0068] In some embodiments, the outer diameter of the first elastic member 4 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second elastic member 5, wherein both the first elastic member 4 and the second elastic member 5 can be constructed as springs, and the outer diameter of the first elastic member 4 is smaller than the outer diameter of the second elastic member 5, so that the elastic force generated by the first elastic member 4 is smaller than the elastic force of the second elastic member 5.

[0069] And / or, in some other embodiments, the elastic coefficient of the first elastic element 4 is less than the elastic coefficient of the second elastic element 5, that is, the first elastic element 4 and the second elastic element 5 are set with different elastic coefficients so that they have different elastic forces, so that the elastic force generated by the first elastic element 4 is less than the elastic force of the second elastic element 5.

[0070] Therefore, when the pressure at the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12 is relatively balanced, the elastic force of the second elastic element 5 overcomes the elastic force of the first elastic element 4. That is, the elastic force exerted by the second elastic element 5 on the second valve plate 22 is greater than the elastic force exerted by the first elastic element 4 on the first valve plate 21. The second valve plate 22 can push the first valve plate 21 to move in the second direction. When the side of the second valve plate 22 and the first valve plate 21 that is pressing against each other reaches the first limiting step surface 13, the first limiting step surface 13 and the first valve plate 21 can press against the second valve plate 22 together and limit the second valve plate 22, so that the second valve plate 22 is fixed at that place to achieve isolation of the valve cavity 14. Thus, without the action of external force, the oil tank isolation valve 100 maintains the state of isolation between the oil tank connection port 11 and the carbon canister port 12, thereby maintaining the pressure in the oil tank.

[0071] In some embodiments, the valve chamber 14 includes a first sub-chamber 141 and a second sub-chamber 142 that are interconnected. The oil tank connection port 11 is connected to the first sub-chamber 141, and the second sub-chamber 142 is connected to the carbon canister port 12. The second elastic member 5 and the second valve plate 22 are both disposed in the second sub-chamber 142. The first elastic member 4 and the first valve plate 21 are both disposed in the first sub-chamber 141 and are adapted to extend toward the second sub-chamber 142 to act on the second valve plate 22.

[0072] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first sub-cavity 141 and the second sub-cavity 142 can contain gas. The first sub-cavity 141 is connected to the fuel tank connection port 11, and the second sub-cavity 142 is connected to the carbon canister port 12. That is, the fuel tank connection port 11 can deliver gas to the first sub-cavity 141 and apply pressure to the first valve plate 21, and the carbon canister port 12 can deliver gas to the second sub-cavity 142 and apply pressure to the second valve plate 22. Thus, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 can flexibly open or close the valve cavity 14 under pressure.

[0073] In some embodiments, the oil tank connection port 11, the first sub-cavity 141 and the second sub-cavity 142 are sequentially connected in a first direction, and the second sub-cavity 142 is connected to the carbon canister port 12 in a third direction, which intersects with the first direction.

[0074] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first direction is perpendicular to the third direction. The first limiting step surface 13 is located in the second sub-cavity 142, which is connected to the carbon canister opening 12 and close to the oil tank connection opening 11. Therefore, when the pressure at the oil tank connection opening 11 is greater than the pressure at the carbon canister opening 12, and the pressure difference exceeds a first pressure value, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 move along the first direction under pressure, and the first sub-cavity 141 and the second sub-cavity 142 connect. Conversely, when the pressure at the carbon canister opening 12 is greater than the pressure at the oil tank connection opening 11, and the pressure difference exceeds a second pressure value, gas pushes the first valve plate 21 along the second direction through the central connection opening, and the second valve plate 22 presses against the first limiting step surface 13, separating the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22, and the first sub-cavity 141 and the second sub-cavity 142 connect. Thus, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 can selectively open or close the valve cavity 14.

[0075] In some embodiments, the actuator 3 includes an actuator locking pin 31, which is adapted to drive the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 to move together in the first direction when moving in the first direction, so as to connect the valve cavity 14. That is, when the actuator locking pin 31 moves in the first direction, the actuator locking pin 31 overcomes the elastic force of the first elastic member 4 and the second elastic member 5 to push the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 to move together in the first direction to open the valve cavity 14.

[0076] Specifically, such as Figure 4As shown, when the actuator locking pin 31 moves along the first direction, the actuator locking pin 31 acts on the first valve plate 21 and causes the first valve plate 21 to press against the second valve plate 22. The first elastic element 4 is stretched and the second elastic element 5 is compressed. Under the action of the actuator locking pin 31, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 move together along the first direction. When the first valve plate 21 moves to the second sub-cavity 142, the first sub-cavity 141 and the second sub-cavity 142 are connected. The gas in the oil tank connection port 11 can enter the carbon canister port 12 through the valve cavity 14, thereby realizing the refueling and depressurization of the oil tank.

[0077] In some embodiments, the tank isolation valve 100 further includes a third elastic element 6, which presses against the actuator locking pin 31 and is used to push the actuator locking pin 31 to move and reset in the second direction. That is, the third elastic element 6 can generate an elastic force that locks the actuator 3 in the movement in the second direction, so as to reset the actuator locking pin 31 and facilitate the valve chamber 14 to be opened again through the actuator locking pin 31.

[0078] Specifically, such as Figure 4 As shown, when the actuator locking pin 31 moves along the first direction, the third elastic element 6 is subjected to tension and deforms, and generates an elastic force that causes it to contract, thereby driving the actuator locking pin 31 to move along the second direction. Simultaneously, the second elastic element 5 is compressed and generates an elastic force that causes it to extend. The second elastic element 5 can apply this elastic force to the second valve plate 22 to push the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 to move together along the second direction. Therefore, after the oil tank is refilled and depressurized, the actuator locking pin 31 and the valve plate assembly 2 move towards the second direction under the elastic forces of the second elastic element 5 and the third elastic element 6, respectively, causing the second valve plate 22 to press against the first limiting step surface 13, thus isolating the valve cavity 14 by the valve plate assembly 2 and restoring it to a pressure-holding state.

[0079] In some embodiments, the outer peripheral wall of the actuator locking pin 31 is formed with a second limiting step surface 311, one end of the third elastic member 6 abuts against the valve body 1 and the other end abuts against the second limiting step surface 311; the third elastic member 6 can transmit elastic force to the actuator locking pin 31 through the second limiting step surface 311, thereby generating elastic force between the valve body 1 and the actuator locking pin 31, so as to cause relative displacement between the valve body 1 and the actuator locking pin 31.

[0080] And / or, in some other embodiments, the third elastic element 6 is sleeved outside the actuator locking pin 31. The third elastic element 6 can be constructed as a spring, and this spring, sleeved outside the actuator locking pin 31, allows for the sharing of radial and axial space. This reduces the space occupied by the third elastic element 6 within the tank isolation valve 100, thus reducing the volume of the tank isolation valve 100.

[0081] Specifically, such as Figure 1As shown, the third elastic element 6 is sleeved on the outside of the actuator locking pin 31, with one end pressing against the valve body 1 and the other end pressing against the second limiting step surface 311. When the second valve plate 22 presses against the first limiting step surface 13, the second limiting step surface 311 compresses the third elastic element 6. As a result, the third elastic element 6 generates an elastic force that acts on the second limiting step surface 311 to make the actuator locking pin 31 move in the first direction. In other words, the magnitude of the elastic force generated by the third elastic element 6 under the same compression volume can be controlled to control the magnitude of the pressure relief of the oil tank isolation valve 100.

[0082] In some embodiments, the actuator locking pin 31 includes a drive section 312, which passes through the second valve plate 22 and the first valve plate 21 in sequence. The outer peripheral wall of the drive section 312 has a limiting protrusion 3121 located on the side of the first valve plate 21 away from the second valve plate 22. The limiting protrusion 3121 is used to push the first valve plate 21 to drive the second valve plate 22 to move together.

[0083] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 have coaxial through holes. The driving section 312 of the actuator locking pin 31 passes through the through holes, and the driving section 312 extends radially outward at the end of the actuator locking pin 31, thereby forming a limiting protrusion 3121 to press against the side of the first valve plate 21 facing the oil tank connection port 11, thereby making the first valve plate 21 and the actuator locking pin 31 have a limiting engagement. When it is necessary to depressurize the oil tank, the actuator locking pin 31 can be manually driven to move in the first direction. Thus, the limiting protrusion 3121 can push the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 to move together in the first direction, thereby opening the valve chamber 14 and allowing the oil tank to depressurize.

[0084] The present invention also proposes a fuel tank system.

[0085] The fuel tank system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a fuel tank body and a fuel tank isolation valve 100 as described in any of the above embodiments. The inner cavity of the fuel tank body is connected to the fuel tank connection port 11. That is, the fuel tank isolation valve 100 can control the connection or isolation between the fuel tank and the outside, thereby controlling the pressure relief of the fuel tank. The fuel tank cap can be configured as a smart fuel tank cap, which can automatically control whether it opens based on the pressure inside the fuel tank. For example, when the pressure inside the fuel tank is too high, the smart fuel tank cap is locked and cannot be opened, thereby maintaining the pressure in the fuel tank; when the fuel tank is depressurized, the smart fuel tank cap can be unlocked, allowing the fuel to be opened for refueling. This reduces the user's operating steps and improves the user experience.

[0086] In some embodiments, the fuel tank system further includes a carbon canister, the inner cavity of which is connected to the carbon canister inlet 12. Thus, both the fuel tank and the carbon canister are connected to the fuel tank isolation valve 100, meaning the fuel tank isolation valve 100 can control the connection or isolation between the fuel tank and the carbon canister. When it is necessary to depressurize the fuel tank, the fuel tank isolation valve 100 can be opened, connecting the fuel tank and the carbon canister, allowing the fuel tank to deliver gas to the carbon canister to complete the depressurization. When it is not necessary to depressurize the fuel tank, the fuel tank isolation valve 100 can disconnect the fuel tank and the carbon canister to prevent fuel vapor from continuously flowing into the carbon canister and reduce static evaporation emissions of fuel vapor.

[0087] In some embodiments, the fuel tank body is also connected to a fuel tank cap.

[0088] The actuator 3 is configured to be linked with the fuel tank cap; or the actuator 3 is configured as a cap actuator for the fuel tank cap. Specifically, when the vehicle does not need to refuel, the actuator 3 can keep the fuel tank cap closed. At the same time, the actuator locking pin 31 and the valve plate assembly 2 can isolate the fuel tank and the carbon canister under the action of the second elastic element 5 and the third elastic element 6. That is, the fuel tank isolation valve 100 isolates the fuel tank and the carbon canister, and the fuel vapor in the fuel tank cannot flow out to the outside, thereby realizing the function of a high-pressure fuel tank. When the vehicle needs to be refueled, the actuator 3 can open the fuel tank cap. At the same time, the actuator locking pin 31 drives the valve plate assembly 2 to move in the first direction. That is, the fuel tank isolation valve 100 opens the fuel tank and the carbon canister, and the fuel vapor in the fuel tank can enter the carbon canister. Thus, the fuel tank is depressurized and refueling can be carried out. After refueling, the actuator 3 can close the fuel tank cap, and the fuel tank isolation valve 100 closes to isolate the fuel tank and the carbon canister, thereby realizing the function of a high-pressure fuel tank.

[0089] Among them, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, when the pressure inside the fuel tank is too high, the pressure can act on the first valve plate 21 to push the first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 to move in the first direction. The fuel vapor inside the fuel tank can enter the carbon canister to reduce the fuel tank pressure, thereby protecting the fuel tank. When the pressure inside the fuel tank is too low, the external pressure can act on the first valve plate 21 to make the first valve plate 21 move in the second direction. The first valve plate 21 and the second valve plate 22 separate, and the gas can enter the fuel tank through the central connecting port, thereby protecting the fuel tank.

[0090] The fuel tank cap can be opened manually. The actuator 3 is configured as the cap actuator for the fuel tank cap. When the fuel tank cap is opened, the fuel tank isolation valve 100 is opened to release the pressure in the fuel tank. Alternatively, the actuator 3 can be used to open the fuel tank cap. For example, the actuator 3 can be linked with the fuel tank cap through gear transmission, cam mechanism, etc. The user can open the fuel tank cap and the fuel tank isolation valve 100 by opening the actuator 3 switch, thereby completing the pressure release to refuel the fuel tank. Therefore, there is no need to set up a separate actuator 3. By sharing the cap actuator, the installation cost is reduced.

[0091] The present invention also proposes a vehicle.

[0092] The vehicle according to embodiments of the present invention includes the fuel tank isolation valve 100 or fuel tank system of any of the above embodiments. The mechanical valve plate assembly 2, in cooperation with the actuator 3, achieves pressure balance regulation of the fuel tank, enabling pressure holding, pressure relief, and negative pressure replenishment. In particular, it can achieve overpressure relief and refueling pressure relief functions, which is beneficial for meeting pressure regulation needs in different scenarios. Compared with electromagnetic isolation valves, it is safer, more stable, and more reliable in use, and the overall installation cost of the fuel tank isolation valve 100 is lower.

[0093] Throughout this specification, reference to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiments," "examples," "specific examples," or "some examples" means that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in conjunction with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the present invention. In this specification, illustrative uses of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0094] While embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations may be made to the embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, and that the scope of the invention is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A tank isolation valve, characterized in that, include: The valve body (1) is provided with an oil tank connection port (11) and a carbon canister port (12), and a valve cavity (14) is formed inside the valve body (1) that connects the oil tank connection port (11) and the carbon canister port (12). Valve plate assembly (2), the valve plate assembly (2) is installed in the valve chamber (14) and is used to normally isolate the valve chamber (14), the valve plate assembly (2) is configured to open the valve chamber (14) when the pressure of one of the oil tank connection port (11) and the carbon canister port (12) exceeds a set pressure value compared to the other; Actuator (3) for selectively actuating the valve plate assembly (2) to selectively open the valve chamber (14).

2. The tank isolation valve according to claim 1, characterized in that, The valve plate assembly (2) includes a first valve plate (21) and a second valve plate (22), both of which are movably installed in the valve cavity (14). When the pressure at the oil tank connection port (11) exceeds a first pressure value compared to the pressure at the carbon canister port (12), the first valve plate (21) presses against the second valve plate (22) and moves together in a first direction to open the valve chamber (14). When the pressure at the carbon canister port (12) exceeds a second pressure value compared to the pressure at the oil tank connection port (11), the first valve plate (21) moves in a second direction to separate from the second valve plate (22) to open the valve chamber (14). The first direction is opposite to the second direction.

3. The tank isolation valve according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a first elastic element (4) and a second elastic element (5), the first elastic element (4) being used to apply an elastic force to the first valve plate (21) to move in the first direction, and the second elastic element (5) being used to apply an elastic force to the second valve plate (22) to move in the second direction.

4. The tank isolation valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve cavity (14) is provided with a first limiting step surface (13), the second valve plate (22) is adapted to press against the first limiting step surface (13) under the action of the second elastic member (5), and the first valve plate (21) is adapted to press against the side of the second valve plate (22) facing the first limiting step surface (13) under the action of the first elastic member (4).

5. The tank isolation valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The outer diameter of the second valve plate (22) is larger than the outer diameter of the first valve plate (21), and the second valve plate (22) is provided with a central communication port that is directly opposite to the first valve plate (21); Wherein, the first valve plate (21) is adapted to block the middle connection port under the force of the first elastic member (4), and the first valve plate (21) is adapted to move away from the second valve plate (22) under the pressure of the carbon canister port (12) and make the middle connection port open and connected between the oil tank connection port (11) and the carbon canister port (12).

6. The tank isolation valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The outer diameter of the first elastic element (4) is smaller than the outer diameter of the second elastic element (5); And / or, the elastic coefficient of the first elastic element (4) is less than the elastic coefficient of the second elastic element (5).

7. The tank isolation valve according to claim 3, characterized in that, The valve chamber (14) includes a first sub-chamber (141) and a second sub-chamber (142) that are interconnected. The oil tank connection port (11) is connected to the first sub-chamber (141), and the second sub-chamber (142) is connected to the carbon canister port (12). The second elastic element (5) and the second valve plate (22) are both located in the second sub-chamber (142). The first elastic element (4) and the first valve plate (21) are both located in the first sub-chamber (141) and are adapted to extend toward the second sub-chamber (142) to act on the second valve plate (22).

8. The tank isolation valve according to claim 7, characterized in that, The oil tank connection port (11), the first sub-cavity (141) and the second sub-cavity (142) are connected in sequence in the first direction, and the second sub-cavity (142) is connected to the carbon canister port (12) in a third direction, which intersects with the first direction.

9. The tank isolation valve according to any one of claims 2-8, characterized in that, The actuator (3) includes an actuator locking pin (31), which is adapted to drive the first valve plate (21) and the second valve plate (22) to move together in the first direction when moving in the first direction, so as to connect the valve chamber (14).

10. The tank isolation valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a third elastic element (6), which presses against the actuator locking pin (31) and is used to push the actuator locking pin (31) to move and reset in the second direction.

11. The tank isolation valve according to claim 10, characterized in that, The outer peripheral wall of the actuator locking pin (31) is formed with a second limiting step surface (311), and one end of the third elastic member (6) abuts against the valve body (1) and the other end abuts against the second limiting step surface (311); And / or, the third elastic element (6) is sleeved outside the actuator locking pin (31).

12. The tank isolation valve according to claim 9, characterized in that, The actuator locking pin (31) includes a drive section (312), which passes through the second valve plate (22) and the first valve plate (21) in sequence. The outer peripheral wall of the drive section (312) has a limiting protrusion (3121) located on the side of the first valve plate (21) away from the second valve plate (22). The limiting protrusion (3121) is used to push the first valve plate (21) to drive the second valve plate (22) to move together.

13. A fuel tank system, characterized in that, It includes a tank body and a tank isolation valve according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein the inner cavity of the tank body is connected to the tank communication port (11).

14. The fuel tank system according to claim 13, characterized in that, It also includes a carbon canister, the inner cavity of which is connected to the carbon canister opening (12).

15. The fuel tank system according to claim 13, characterized in that, The main body of the fuel tank is also connected to a fuel tank opening cover; The actuator (3) is configured to be linked with the fuel tank cap; Alternatively, the actuator (3) may be configured as a cap actuator for the fuel tank cap.

16. A vehicle, characterized in that, It includes the tank isolation valve according to any one of claims 1-12 or the tank system according to any one of claims 13-15.

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