Fuel tank vent valve assembly

Abstract

An exhaust valve assembly is provided that includes a housing having a float chamber. The exhaust valve assembly further includes a float assembly having a movable float movable along a longitudinal axis and a plate assembly having a first side facing the float assembly. The float includes a float guide structure that is operatively engaged with a plate guide structure disposed on the plate assembly. The guide structures constrain or guide movement of the float along the longitudinal axis.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to fuel storage systems for vehicles, and more specifically to systems and components capable of safely discharging fuel vapors while preventing accidental leakage of liquid fuel. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle fuel tanks require systems and devices that allow for safe and consistent operation under certain conditions. Given the high flammability and energy density of fuels, the reliability of these safety systems is crucial.

[0003] In certain applications, safety systems are required to ensure the safe release of vapors from the liquid fuel stored in the fuel tank, rather than allowing pressure to build up within the tank. For example, increased solar radiation and / or ambient temperature can raise the temperature of the fuel tank and its contents, thereby increasing the rate of refill evaporation. In some applications, fuel tank assemblies require integrated safety features to ensure that vapor release paths are not used as liquid fuel release paths, in order to prevent accidental leaks.

[0004] As one example, if the fuel tank is overfilled during refilling, liquid fuel may leak through channels designed for releasing fuel vapors unless the risk is anticipated and mitigated. As another example, if the fuel vapor release channel is sealed to prevent leakage based on an overfilling event, it is necessary to ensure that the full functionality of the safety system (e.g., fuel vapor release) is rapidly restored when the fuel level subsequently decreases and / or when normal operating conditions are resumed. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure relates to inventive features that enable and improve performance related to the safe emission of fuel vapors and the sealing that prevents liquid fuel from leaking from the vehicle's fuel tank.

[0006] In a particular embodiment, an exhaust valve assembly includes: a housing including a float chamber; a float assembly disposed within the float chamber and including a float configured to move along a longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the float includes one or more float guide structures; and a plate assembly including a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the plate assembly being configured such that the first side faces the float assembly within the float chamber, wherein the first side of the plate assembly is provided with one or more plate guide structures configured to operatively engage with each of the one or more float guide structures to constrain and guide the movement of the float along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein a first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each float guide structure is less than a second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float to facilitate reducing jamming associated with the movement of the float, each radial distance being obtained in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

[0007] In a particular embodiment that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the plate assembly is provided with a first vent orifice aligned with the float chamber. In a particular embodiment that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the axis passing through at least two float guide structures intersects the longitudinal axis of the float assembly. In a particular embodiment that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the first radial distance is less than or equal to half of the second radial distance.

[0008] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, one or more float guide structures include ribs or tracks configured to operatively engage with one or more plate guide structures.

[0009] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the float assembly includes a platform disposed on the upper surface of the float, the platform being tilted at a non-parallel angle relative to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis. In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the platform is tilted at an angle between five and thirty degrees relative to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0010] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the float assembly includes a membrane extending along a longitudinal axis and including a first end fixed to a first attachment of the float assembly, a second end disposed opposite to the first end and fixed to a second attachment of the float assembly, and a slack portion associated with the second end. In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, corresponding to the highest position of the float along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, the membrane is configured to cover and seal a first vent, at least a portion of which is supported by a platform, wherein, based on the float moving away from the highest position, the membrane is configured to reopen the vent, this reopening being associated with peeling the membrane from the first vent starting from the first end, and wherein at least a portion of the slack portion of the membrane includes curvature relative to an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the membrane.

[0011] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the first vent orifice includes an elongated section aligned with the longitudinal axis of the membrane. In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the relaxed portion of the membrane promotes sealing of the first vent orifice by facilitating alignment and constraint of the membrane relative to the vent orifice.

[0012] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the upper surface of the platform includes a cavity comprising an elongated profile aligned with the longitudinal axis of the platform. In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the exhaust valve assembly further includes a head valve assembly configured to selectively open based on a fluid pressure acting on the head valve assembly exceeding a threshold opening pressure.

[0013] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the second side of the plate assembly includes a plate chamber, wherein the plate assembly includes a second vent that is separately disposed from the first vent and aligned with the head valve assembly.

[0014] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features described above, the head valve assembly is positioned adjacent to the float assembly such that a first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly, and wherein the head valve assembly is configured to be in fluid communication with the exhaust outlet of the exhaust valve assembly.

[0015] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features described above, the longitudinal axis of the head valve assembly is laterally offset from the longitudinal axis of the float assembly and oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

[0016] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features described above, the float includes a cross-sectional shape with a cutout configured to receive at least a portion of the head valve assembly.

[0017] In a specific embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, a fuel tank valve system includes: a fuel tank including an exhaust outlet; an exhaust valve assembly operatively connected to the housing of the fuel tank, the exhaust valve assembly including: a float chamber; a float assembly disposed within the float chamber and including a float configured to be movable along a longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the float includes one or more float guide structures; a plate assembly including a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the plate assembly being configured such that the first side faces the float assembly within the float chamber, wherein the first side of the plate assembly is provided with one or more plate guide structures, the one or more plate guide structures being respectively configured to interact with the float assembly within the float chamber. One or more float guide structures are operatively engaged to constrain and guide the movement of the float along a longitudinal axis; and a head valve assembly is configured to selectively open based on a fluid pressure acting on the head valve assembly exceeding a threshold opening pressure, wherein a first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each float guide structure is less than a second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float, in order to reduce jamming associated with the movement of the float, each radial distance being obtained in a plane passing through the float and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the head valve assembly is arranged adjacent to the float assembly such that a first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly, and wherein the head valve assembly is arranged in fluid communication with an exhaust outlet.

[0018] In a particular embodiment that may combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, a method of assembling an exhaust valve assembly includes: providing a float assembly within a housing of the exhaust valve assembly such that a float of the float assembly is movable along a longitudinal axis of the float assembly, a first side of a plate assembly further configured to face the float assembly; operatively engaging one or more guide structures of the float assembly with one or more guide structures of the plate assembly respectively to constrain and guide the movement of the float along the longitudinal axis; providing a head valve assembly adjacent to the float assembly such that a first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly; and providing a plate assembly having a first exhaust port aligned with the float assembly and a second exhaust port aligned with the head valve assembly, wherein a first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each guide structure of the float assembly is less than a second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float to reduce jamming associated with the movement of the float, each radial distance being obtained in a plane passing through the float and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

[0019] In a particular embodiment, an exhaust valve assembly is disclosed, which includes a float disposed in a float chamber, the float chamber including a sealable outlet orifice, and the exhaust valve assembly being provided with a head valve for releasing fuel vapor.

[0020] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the exhaust valve assembly includes a top plate, a middle plate, and a bottom plate.

[0021] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, a flexible strip is provided for sealing the float chamber outlet orifice to prevent liquid fuel leakage, and an inclined lower surface of the float chamber outlet orifice and a corresponding inclined slope on the float are also provided.

[0022] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the two ends of the flexible strip are attached to the upper surface of the float at corresponding strip attachments.

[0023] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the upper end of the belt is connected to an upper belt attachment on the float, and the lower end of the belt is connected to a lower belt attachment on the float.

[0024] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the lower end of the belt is coupled with a belt slack portion.

[0025] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the relaxation portion includes a ring-shaped structure.

[0026] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the loop structure of the belt bends downward from the rest of the belt.

[0027] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the surface of the float chamber outlet orifice that engages with the belt is oval, elliptical, racetrack-shaped, or slit-shaped.

[0028] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the interface of the inclined surface of the float includes a cavity.

[0029] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the cavity with the interface corresponds to the shape of the surface of the float chamber outlet orifice that engages with the belt.

[0030] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the band interface on the inclined surface of the float includes one or more ridges.

[0031] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the interface on the inclined surface of the float includes one or more cuts.

[0032] In certain embodiments where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the strip is made of a fluorinated elastomer.

[0033] In certain embodiments where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the fluorinated elastomer material is further reinforced with a polymer.

[0034] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the float includes a guiding feature positioned near a longitudinal axis that contains the buoyancy center of the float or the centroid of the float's cross-section.

[0035] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the middle plate includes a float guide rib configured to engage with and support a guide feature disposed on the float.

[0036] In a particular embodiment that can combine some or all of the features of the above embodiments, the float has a crescent-shaped cross-section.

[0037] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the float has a cross-sectional shape including a partially circular shape.

[0038] In a particular embodiment where features of some or all of the above embodiments can be combined, the middle plate chamber disposed between the top plate and the middle plate includes one or more features for guiding or restricting flow.

[0039] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the upper surface of the head valve includes a conical structure to reduce flow loss when the head valve is open.

[0040] In a particular embodiment where some or all of the features of the above embodiments can be combined, the head valve assembly includes a head valve spring, and the head valve is provided with a head valve skirt for stabilizing the head valve spring. Attached Figure Description

[0041] To aid in understanding this disclosure, reference is now made to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A A schematic front view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0042] Figure 1B A schematic rear view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0043] Figure 1C A schematic side view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0044] Figure 1D A schematic top view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0045] Figure 1EA schematic bottom view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0046] Figure 2A A schematic top perspective view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0047] Figure 2B A schematic top perspective view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0048] Figure 2C A schematic bottom perspective view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0049] Figure 3A A schematic top perspective sectional view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0050] Figure 3B A schematic top sectional view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0051] Figure 3C A schematic side sectional view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0052] Figure 3D A partially exploded schematic side sectional view of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0053] Figure 4A A schematic top perspective view of a float assembly according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0054] Figure 4B A schematic top view of a float according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0055] Figure 4C A schematic top perspective view of a float according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0056] Figure 4D A schematic partial side cross-sectional view is shown, depicting an exemplary attachment clip mounted in a float according to a particular embodiment.

[0057] Figure 4E and Figure 4F A schematic perspective view of an exemplary attachment clip according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0058] Figure 5A A schematic top perspective view of the middle plate according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0059] Figure 5B A schematic bottom perspective view of a middle plate according to a particular embodiment is shown, with an enlarged inset showing an angled orifice.

[0060] Figure 6A A schematic side view of a head valve according to a particular embodiment is shown.

[0061] Figure 6B A schematic top perspective view of a head valve according to a particular embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0062] To facilitate a better understanding of this disclosure, the following embodiments of certain implementations are provided. These embodiments should not be construed as limiting or restricting the scope of this disclosure.

[0063] According to various embodiments of this disclosure, this document discloses multiple mechanisms, components, arrangements, and methods of assembling, manufacturing, and / or operating an exhaust valve for a fuel tank system.

[0064] Refer to the attached diagram. Figures 1A to 1E and Figures 2A to 2C Several schematic diagrams of exhaust valve assemblies according to specific embodiments are shown. In certain embodiments, a gradient exhaust valve (GVV) assembly may be provided as an exemplary exhaust valve assembly disclosed herein. The provided drawings, by way of example and not limitation, depict a gradient exhaust valve (GVV) assembly. By way of example and not limitation, the term "exhaust valve assembly" may be used to refer to a gradient exhaust valve (GVV) assembly in instances of this disclosure.

[0065] In a particular embodiment, as illustrated by a non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings, the exhaust valve assembly 105 may include a top plate 110, a bottom plate 130, and / or a middle plate 150. In a particular embodiment, the housing of the exhaust valve assembly 105 may be formed from one or more of the top plate, bottom plate, and / or middle plate. In a particular embodiment, the middle plate 150 may be referred to as a plate assembly. In a particular embodiment, the exhaust valve assembly 105 may include one or more attachment features configured for securing the exhaust valve assembly 105 to a fuel tank. By way of example and not limitation, the exhaust valve assembly 105 may include an attachment portion 120 comprising one or more features for attachment to the interior or exterior of a tank (e.g., a fuel tank), for example, by welding (e.g., ultrasonic welding), adhesion, and / or other suitable joining processes. In a particular embodiment, for example in Figure 1D and Figure 3AAs depicted by way of non-limiting embodiments, the attachment portion may be disposed on and / or associated with a plate (e.g., top plate 110) or surface of the exhaust valve assembly 105. In a particular embodiment, the attachment portion 120 may include one or more protrusions configured to attach to a suitable surface of a tank, such as a fuel tank. In a particular embodiment, the exhaust valve assembly 105 may include an outlet port 140 disposed at a suitable portion as an outlet conduit for discharging fuel vapors released from the fuel tank, such as, in a non-limiting embodiment, a bottom plate. In a particular embodiment, a combination of a top plate, a middle plate, and / or a bottom plate may be assembled to form a housing for the exhaust valve assembly 105. In a particular embodiment, the exhaust valve assembly 105 may have a circular cross-sectional shape. In a particular embodiment, the exhaust valve assembly 105 may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape or any other suitable shape.

[0066] Figures 3A to 3D Several schematic cross-sectional views of an exhaust valve assembly according to a particular embodiment are shown, wherein Figure 3D A partial exploded view was depicted. (Reference) Figures 3A to 3D In a particular embodiment, the exhaust valve assembly 105 may include a float assembly 200 having a float 210. In a particular embodiment, the float may be located within a float chamber 220 and / or the housing of the exhaust valve assembly 105. In a particular embodiment, the float chamber 220 may be disposed in or within the base plate 130. In a particular embodiment, internal portions of the top plate, middle plate, and / or base plate may cooperate to form the float chamber 220.

[0067] In a particular embodiment, the float may move along the longitudinal axis of the float chamber 220 and / or the float assembly 200 in response to the level of liquid fuel in the fuel tank (e.g., Figures 3C to 3D The translation is as depicted in the figure. In a particular embodiment, the corresponding materials of the float 210 and / or the float chamber 220 may be selected such that the interface between the float 210 and the float chamber 220 may include the desired properties of low friction and / or appropriate clearance under a range of operating conditions.

[0068] In a particular embodiment, for a vehicle located on a horizontal surface, the longitudinal axis (e.g., LL) of the float assembly 200 may be substantially vertical. By way of example, and not limitation, the vertical longitudinal axis may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the gravity vector. In a particular embodiment, if the vehicle is located on an inclined and / or other non-horizontal surface, the longitudinal axis may not coincide with the vertical direction. By way of example, and not limitation, if the vehicle is stopped on or across a slope, or if the vehicle has rolled over, the longitudinal axis along which the float moves obliquely may not be aligned with the vertical vector. By way of example, and not limitation, in this case, the float 210 may remain constrained within the float chamber 220, and / or may be guided or constrained to translate along the float chamber 220 and / or the longitudinal axis of the float assembly 200.

[0069] In certain embodiments, float 210 may translate, diagonally move, and / or otherwise experience motion based on buoyancy acting on float 210 (e.g., based on the displacement of liquid fuel by float 210). In certain embodiments, float 210 may be subjected to spring forces, such as those generated by float spring 230, either alone or additionally. In certain embodiments, the motion of float 210 may be guided and / or constrained by guiding features, such as float guide 240. In certain embodiments, for example in... Figure 3B and / or Figures 4A to 4C As described by way of non-limiting embodiments, guiding features such as float guide 240 may be located on float 210, at or near the center of the float or the center of buoyancy of the float, or near its longitudinal axis. By way of example and not limitation, positioning the guiding features near the center of buoyancy (or its axis) can reduce or eliminate float jamming based on the moment or torque generated by buoyancy. In certain embodiments, one or more guiding features located on float 210 may suitably mate with corresponding features disposed outside float 210. By way of example and not limitation, float guide 240 (including, for example, slots, tracks, and / or other suitable features) may mate with, for example, guide ribs 250 disposed in the center plate and / or float chamber 220 (e.g., Figures 3A to 3B The features of the buoy are combined to engage, promote, and / or selectively constrain the motion of the buoy.

[0070] This is an example and not a limitation. Figure 3CAn exemplary approximate path 260 for releasing fuel vapor from the fuel tank through the assembly is shown. In a particular embodiment, while the position of the float along the longitudinal axis of the float's movement (e.g., LL) can be determined by the liquid fuel level in the tank, as previously described, a small gap can be provided at its interface between the float 210 and the float chamber 220. By way of example and not limitation, fuel vapor from the fuel tank can flow through this small gap through the float and can occupy the volume above the float within the float chamber 220. In a particular embodiment, the float can rise or otherwise move to seal the outlet or orifice located at the top of the float chamber 220 when the liquid fuel level is sufficiently high.

[0071] In a particular embodiment, the valve may be associated with the outlet orifice of the float chamber 220. In a particular embodiment, such a valve may be designed and / or calibrated to open at a predetermined pressure level and release fuel vapor buildup through the outlet port 140. By way of example and not limitation, the disc valve or ball valve may be designed to open at a specific threshold vapor pressure, such as pressure exceeding 5 kPa, and / or to prevent pressure buildup exceeding the designed opening pressure. In a particular embodiment (not shown), such a valve may be located at the top of the float chamber 220. In a particular embodiment, the valve may be located adjacent to the float chamber 220.

[0072] In a particular embodiment, a sealable float chamber outlet orifice (e.g., float chamber outlet orifice 270 located at the top of float chamber 220) can be connected to another chamber disposed above float chamber 220 in the vent valve assembly. This is by way of example and not limitation, for example... Figure 3C and / or Figures 5A to 5B As depicted, the center plate inlet 310, when open, can convey fuel vapor through the center plate chamber 320 and discharge it from the center plate outlet 330. In a particular embodiment, this route of the fluid path can achieve and / or allow for a shorter overall longitudinal dimension of the exhaust valve assembly. As an example, and not a limitation, providing a suitable valve directly above the sealable float chamber 220 may require or occupy a substantially large longitudinal height for the exhaust valve assembly. In a particular embodiment, a shorter overall height (i.e., lower longitudinal height) of the exhaust valve assembly may be desirable for encapsulation and other performance within the fuel tank. As an example, and not a limitation, for example, for a given and / or characteristic float volume, a shorter (in longitudinal dimension) float with a wider or larger cross-sectional area can allow or achieve relatively small longitudinal float movement for a given change in liquid fuel level, thereby facilitating a high cut-off height of the float assembly 200 and / or a reduced overall height of the exhaust valve assembly. As an example and not a limitation, the cut-off height of the float 210 for the float assembly 200 may correspond to the maximum fuel level in the fuel tank, i.e., the maximum permissible height of the fuel level, and thus correspond to the fuel capacity of the tank.

[0073] Figures 4A to 4C A schematic diagram of a float 210 and / or float assembly 200 according to a particular embodiment is shown. In a particular embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of float 210 may be configured to effectively encapsulate adjacent head valve paths and head valve components within exhaust valve assembly 105. In a particular embodiment, the head valve may be referred to as an outlet valve and / or an anti-drip valve. In a particular embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of float 210 may be configured to provide a shape factor that includes, for example, a combination of a relatively large cross-sectional area and a relatively small float height (e.g., along the longitudinal axis) for a given float volume. By way of example and not limitation, such a shape factor may facilitate a shorter overall exhaust valve assembly height (e.g., along the longitudinal axis) and / or a higher cut-off height for the exhaust valve assembly. By way of example and not limitation, a shorter exhaust valve assembly height and / or a higher cut-off height may enable more efficient encapsulation of the corresponding exhaust valve assembly within the fuel tank based on encapsulation constraints, thereby allowing for a larger fuel tank capacity and / or a greater vehicle operating range. By way of example and not limitation, float 210 may include a crescent-shaped cross-section, for example... Figure 4B As depicted in the text.

[0074] By way of example and not limitation, float 210 may include a cross-sectional shape comprising a circular portion, a partially circular shape, and / or, for example, concave surfaces, cuts, and / or other subtractive aspects relative to the circular or partially circular portion. In a particular embodiment, arranging the head valve 410 alongside and / or not above float 210 allows the exhaust valve assembly to be configured for a higher cut-off height than is possible elsewhere. In a particular embodiment, for example, by configuring float 210 to have a relatively short (along the longitudinal axis) and relatively large cross-section (e.g., for a given volume), the lower sidewall surface area of ​​float 210 can reduce surface friction and / or other drag losses, and is beneficial for a higher vapor flow rate capability of the exhaust valve assembly. By way of example and not limitation, the exhaust valve assembly may be rated for fuel vapor flow rates exceeding 40 liters per minute (LPM).

[0075] In certain embodiments, a high cut-off height for the exhaust valve assembly may be desirable. In certain embodiments, the head valve assembly may be positioned adjacent to, parallel to, and / or side-by-side with the float assembly, rather than, for example, positioned on top of the float assembly. In certain embodiments, the float 210 may include a cross-section configured such that the longitudinal axis of the float 210 may intersect the axis (e.g., GG) of the guide structure connecting the float, wherein the longitudinal axis may coincide with and / or be collinear with one or more of the lines of action of the float weight, float buoyancy, and / or float spring force.

[0076] As described herein, in certain embodiments, it may be desirable to close and seal the float chamber outlet orifice 270 to prevent the outflow and / or leakage of liquid fuel. As an example, and not a limitation, overfilling of liquid fuel, tilting of the fuel tank at a certain angle, and / or a vehicle rollover event may require the sealable float chamber outlet orifice 270 to be sealed to prevent liquid fuel leakage. Individually or additionally, in certain embodiments, following a sealing event of the float chamber outlet orifice 270, it may be desirable to rapidly restore the function of the vapor release passage through the float chamber outlet orifice 270 by reopening it once the risk of liquid fuel leakage has diminished. As an example, and not a limitation, the float chamber outlet orifice 270 should be open and / or available for re-releasing fuel vapor after the liquid fuel level has dropped back to a safe or other acceptable lower level.

[0077] In a particular embodiment, a strip feature may be provided to selectively seal the float chamber outlet orifice 270. As an example and not a limitation, the strip feature may be referred to herein as strip 420. It should be understood that the description herein is non-limiting and is intended to provide understanding only; any suitable structure and / or combination thereof may be used and is fully contemplated in this disclosure to provide these features and aspects.

[0078] In a particular embodiment, the band 420 can be operated to selectively seal the float chamber outlet orifice 270 based on a rise in the liquid fuel level of the float 210. As an example, and not a limitation, the band 420 can abut and / or otherwise close the float chamber outlet orifice 270 in the float chamber 220 based on the float 210 rising to the maximum extent of its longitudinal travel. In a particular embodiment, the band 420 configured and set to seal the float chamber outlet orifice 270 can also be designed to rapidly open (e.g., unseal) and / or restore the openness of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 and normal fuel vapor discharge function. As an example, and not a limitation, in a particular embodiment, the effective unsealing and / or reopening of the band 420 can rely on an equalized fluid pressure differential that may exist and hinder reopening. Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the interaction between the design and characteristics of the band 420, the float 210, and the float chamber outlet orifice 270 can influence and / or control the effectiveness and performance of the sealing and reopening properties of the components. Some of these aspects are further discussed below.

[0079] According to a particular embodiment, the band 420 may include relatively flexible and durable components, membranes, sheets, and / or combinations thereof, enabling it to reliably perform the functions of effectively sealing and rapidly reopening the float chamber outlet orifice 270. In a particular embodiment, the band 420 may be relatively thin, deformable, and / or flexible. By way of example and not limitation, in a particular embodiment, the material comprising the band 420 may include synthetic rubber, fluoropolymers, fluorosiloxanes, and / or silicone rubber. In a particular embodiment, the base band material may optionally be further reinforced by additional materials such as polyester or other polymers.

[0080] In a particular implementation, for example Figure 3D and Figure 4A As depicted, an inclined ramp 430 may be provided on the float 210 to support the belt 420 in its seated, sealed position. In a particular embodiment, for example... Figure 3C and Figure 4B As depicted, in a particular embodiment, the belt 420 may be coupled to the float 210 at its end via one or more corresponding belt attachments 440, which may be located on the float 210. According to a specific embodiment (not shown), one or more belt attachment locations may be located in or on the float chamber 220, rather than in or on the float 210.

[0081] In a particular implementation, for example Figures 3C to 3D and Figure 5B As depicted, the lower or mating surface of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 located on the float chamber 220, which abuts and engages with the belt 420 during sealing, may also be inclined or sloped, such that in the sealing configuration, the belt 420 can be tightly engaged, compressed, constrained and / or otherwise held in an inclined or sloped orientation, for example between the inclined surface of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 and the inclined ramp 430 on the float 210.

[0082] In a particular implementation, for example Figure 4A As depicted, belt 420 may be coupled to upper belt attachment 440-1 to maintain tension in that position. Alternatively or additionally, in a particular embodiment, belt 420 may be coupled to lower belt attachment 440-2. In a particular embodiment, belt 420 may include a belt slack portion 460 disposed at at least one of the upper or lower attachments (e.g., when belt 420 is positioned flat against the inclined ramp 430 and / or away from the float chamber outlet orifice 270). This is an example and not a limitation, for example... Figure 4AAs depicted, the slack section 460 may be provided as a loop structure with an available belt length at the lower belt attachment 440-2. By way of example and not limitation, in a particular embodiment, the loop structure of the slack section 460 may be rolled downwards from the main extent of the belt 420 before and / or near attachment to the lower belt attachment 440-2, for example in… Figure 3C As shown in the diagram. In a particular embodiment, the annular structure can be rolled upwards from the main portion of the belt (not shown) before being attached to the lower belt attachment 440-2.

[0083] It should be understood that the attachment 440 may include one, two or more attachment points. While this disclosure shows and / or describes a specific number and / or form of the attachment 440 to provide understanding, such description is non-limiting; this disclosure fully considers all other suitable possibilities among all possible combinations.

[0084] In a particular implementation, for example Figure 4A As depicted, and not as a limitation, it may be desirable to position one or more guide structures (e.g., float guides 240) of float assembly 200 near the longitudinal axis of float assembly 200. As an example, and not as a limitation, reducing the radial distance between the longitudinal axis LL and each of the one or more guide structures of float assembly 200 can reduce the torque or moment acting on float 210 due to forces at the guide structures. In certain embodiments, such torque or moment can cause jamming or sticking, thereby hindering smooth, predictable, and / or reliable movement of float 210 along the longitudinal axis. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the radial distance between one or more guide structures (e.g., float guides 240) and the longitudinal axis of float assembly 200 (e.g., in…) is… Figure 4A The radial distance R1 depicted in the non-limiting embodiments can be minimized. In a particular embodiment, the radial distance R1 between the guide structure (e.g., float guide 240) and the longitudinal axis of the float assembly 200 can be configured to be less than a second radial distance (e.g., R2) between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery. In a particular embodiment, R1 can be less than or equal to three-quarters of R2. In a particular embodiment, R1 can be less than or equal to two-thirds of R2. In a particular embodiment, R1 can be less than or equal to half of R2. In a particular embodiment, R1 can be less than or equal to one-third of R2. In a particular embodiment, R1 can be less than or equal to one-quarter of R2. In a particular embodiment, each radial distance R1 (between the longitudinal axis of the float assembly 200 and each guide structure of the float assembly 200) and R2 (between the longitudinal axis of the float assembly 200 and the outer periphery of the float 210) can be obtained in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float 210. In a particular embodiment, this plane can be intercepted through the float 210.

[0085] In a particular embodiment, the axis passing through at least two guide structures of the float assembly 200 (e.g., passing through...) Figure 3B and Figure 4A The axis GG of the float guide 240, depicted by way of example and not limitation, can be configured to intersect the longitudinal axis of the float assembly 200 (e.g., Figure 3B and Figure 4A (LL in the text). In a particular embodiment, the line of action of one or more forces acting on float 210 may be collinear with the longitudinal axis of float assembly 200, wherein one or more forces acting on float 210 may include one or more of the buoyancy acting on float 210, the weight of float 210, and / or the spring force generated due to float spring 230.

[0086] Figures 5A to 5B A schematic perspective view of a middle plate according to a particular embodiment is shown. In the particular embodiment, Figure 5B A first side of the middle plate 150 can be depicted, wherein the first side is configured to face the float assembly 200 when the exhaust valve assembly 105 is assembled. In a particular embodiment, Figure 5A A second side of the middle plate 150 opposite to the first side can be depicted. In a particular embodiment, the corresponding shapes of the upper and lower openings of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 can be designed to facilitate effective connection and interaction with the valve and the belt, respectively. In a particular embodiment, the cross-sectional shape of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 of the float chamber 220 can transition along the longitudinal axis of the float chamber 220. This is an example, not a limitation, for example... Figures 5A to 5B As depicted, the float chamber outlet orifice 270 can transition from an opening facing the belt to the middle plate inlet, which can be substantially elliptical, oval, racetrack-shaped, or slit-shaped or other suitable shapes (e.g., Figure 3D , Figure 5B (and illustrations), the middle plate inlet may include a substantially circular or other suitable shape (e.g., Figure 5A ).

[0087] In a particular implementation, for example Figures 4B to 4CAs depicted by way of a non-limiting embodiment, the ramp (e.g., inclined ramp 430) on float 210 may be provided with a belt interface 470 for supporting belt 420 in its seated and / or sealed position. By way of example and not limitation, belt interface 470 may include a shape corresponding to the belt-facing opening shape of float chamber outlet orifice 270. In a particular embodiment, alone or additionally, belt interface 470 on float 210 may include one or more recesses or cavities, such as recess 480. In a particular embodiment, one or more cavities may serve as gas release recesses under operating conditions. In a particular embodiment, one or more other features, such as one or more ridges, may be provided within and / or near belt interface 470. In certain embodiments, one or more ridges (e.g., ridge 490) and / or other suitable structures may be configured to provide rigidity to the belt 420 during a sealing event, thereby preventing the belt 420 from wrinkling, folding, folding, and / or misaligning relative to the desired sealing configuration of the belt 420 (e.g., the belt 420 properly held between the float chamber outlet orifice 270 and the belt interface 470). This is an example and not a limitation, for example... Figures 4B to 4C As depicted, the ridge may be centered and / or longitudinally oriented, and / or may be positioned on the top surface of the ramp and / or float for these and / or other purposes.

[0088] As discussed herein, in certain embodiments, when the liquid fuel level has raised the float 210 to its highest level and / or limit, the band 420 can be used to selectively seal the vapor release passage through the float chamber outlet orifice 270, for example, to prevent accidental leakage of liquid fuel through this orifice. In operation, in certain embodiments, the float 210 can rise based on the rising liquid fuel level, such that the upper surface of the band 420 can engage with the lower surface of the float chamber outlet orifice 270. In certain embodiments, the relatively flexible and / or deformable structural and / or material properties of the band 420 relative to less flexible materials can be further compressed to provide an improved seal around the float chamber orifice inlet when the float 210 rises to its highest level.

[0089] As discussed herein, in certain embodiments, the band 420 may be designed to rapidly restore the function of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 to allow fuel vapor release based on a stop under sealing conditions, such as when the liquid fuel level has dropped to below its previous upper or lower limit. As an example, and not a limitation, in this case, longitudinal float movement (e.g., translation) may be desired to closely follow or track the now-decreasing liquid fuel level, thereby exposing the vapor release valve passage and / or timely restoring the ability to release unwanted fuel vapor from the fuel tank. However, in certain embodiments lacking specific related designs, the float 210 may not retract downwards easily and / or rapidly based on a decrease in the liquid fuel level. As an example, and not a limitation, potential difficulties may arise for the desired rapid downward movement of the float 210 because the instantaneous fluid pressure in the chamber above the float 210 tends to decrease based on the initial volume expansion of the chamber; a corresponding decrease in pressure above the float 210 may correspondingly prevent the float 210 from moving downwards based on the relative pressure difference formed on both sides (above and below) of the upper surface of the float. In certain embodiments, individually or additionally, the relative pressure conditions in the middle plate chamber 320 and / or the fuel vapor release passage exiting the float chamber outlet orifice 270, such as existing local pressure conditions, may tend to keep the belt 420 closed after an initial belt sealing event. As an example and not a limitation, it may be desirable in this case to specifically design the belt 420 to intentionally and rapidly reopen to balance the pressure above and below the belt 420, and / or to balance the pressure on both sides of the float 210, thereby allowing the float 210 to slide downwards as the liquid fuel level decreases, thus exposing the float chamber outlet orifice 270 and / or the vapor release passage.

[0090] In a particular embodiment, in the seated or sealed position of the belt 420, the lower surface of the belt 420 (i.e., on the side of the belt 420 facing the float) can rest entirely on the inclined surface 430 of the float 210; the belt 420 can correspondingly maintain a seal against the corresponding inclined lower opening of the float chamber outlet orifice 270. In a particular embodiment, a gas release recess or cavity (e.g., recess 480) can be provided in the belt interface 470 of the inclined surface 430 of the float 210, for example... Figures 4B to 4C The following is depicted by way of non-limiting embodiments. In a particular embodiment, the gas release recess may allow the belt 420 to better conform to a tighter seal against the float chamber outlet orifice 270. In a particular embodiment, one or more ridges may support the belt 420 from collapsing, for example, into the cavity of the belt interface 470.

[0091] In a particular embodiment, when the liquid fuel level first decreases from the highest level or maximum stroke level corresponding to float 210, belt 420 can be configured such that the combined downward force of float 210 can be intentionally designed to act on belt 420 first at the taut (i.e., without slack) belt attachment position. This is an example, and not a limitation, for example... Figure 3D As depicted, the upper band attachment 440-1 can be configured to be tightened under these conditions, i.e., without a slack section. In a particular embodiment, it is provided at the other end (e.g., Figure 3D The slack portion 460 at the lower belt attachment 440-2 prevents the belt 420 from initially being subjected to this force at the other end (e.g., the lower belt attachment position). In a particular embodiment, this tension / slack belt configuration provides a peeling effect to facilitate the rapid reopening of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 as needed (e.g., based on reduced liquid fuel level conditions).

[0092] By way of example and not limitation, in a particular embodiment, when float 210 is subjected to a net downward force (e.g., by lowering the liquid fuel level), the stretched or taut upper end of the inclined, in-place band 420 can be effectively and rapidly withdrawn from the float chamber outlet orifice 270, while the slack lower end can be temporarily or temporarily bent and / or risen above the inclined ramp 430 of float 210. By way of example and not limitation, a combination of these aspects can provide the resulting stripping effect to band 420, which may include initially at least partially opening the float chamber outlet orifice 270 based on the action of the band, thereby rapidly offsetting any pressure differential that might otherwise prevent effective downward translation of float 210 along its longitudinal axis of motion, and thus facilitating the subsequent full and rapid opening of the float chamber outlet orifice 270 to restore vapor flow function. In certain embodiments, as discussed, the lower end of the belt 420 may be intentionally or temporarily desaturated by means of some slack in its belt, and / or the belt 420 may be temporarily raised above the inclined ramp 430 of the float 210 during the float's downward travel.

[0093] In certain embodiments, as discussed herein, the belt slack portion 460 located at the end of the belt facilitates rapid and effective reopening of the float chamber outlet orifice 270. In certain embodiments, features associated with the belt 420 and / or the belt slack portion 460 (e.g., annular structures) may, individually or additionally, promote or achieve better sealing performance of the float chamber outlet orifice 270. As an example and not a limitation, the belt slack portion 460 may be formed in the belt 420 to provide the belt slack portion 460, either individually or in combination with the form and material of the belt 420 (e.g., Figure 3D The ring structure can help reinforce the belt 420 to prevent twisting when the belt 420 is lifted away from the inclined ramp 430 of the float 210. As an example and not a limitation, such as Figure 3D The annular structure depicted around the transverse or lateral axis of the belt 420 can provide reinforcement and / or resistance to specific deformations of the belt 420. In a particular embodiment, the belt 420 can function as a spring under tension due to the annular structure. In a particular embodiment, this reinforcement of the belt 420 can prevent wrinkling, creases, folds, or other undesirable deformations or misalignments of the belt 420. As a non-limiting embodiment, the high fluid velocity near the belt 420 can generate significant pressure and / or force based on flow dynamics, which can cause the belt 420 to shift, misalign, and / or otherwise hinder its effective positioning relative to the float chamber outlet orifice 270. The aforementioned advantageous aspects of the features associated with the belt 420 and / or the belt slack portion 460 can therefore provide rigidity to the belt 420 and / or the ability to present the belt 420 to the float chamber outlet orifice 270 in a flat and aligned manner for improved sealing performance. In a particular embodiment, the annular structure can be a helical and / or downward annular structure (e.g., Figure 3D (As shown in the non-limiting embodiments), or the ring structure may be a spiral and / or an upward ring structure (not shown). In a particular embodiment, the ring structure may be formed in any suitable portion of the band 420.

[0094] In certain embodiments, one or more gas escape channels and / or slits may be provided at the interface. This is by way of example and not limitation. Figure 4B As depicted, the cut 495 may be configured and provided to prevent air and / or other gases from being trapped in the cavities or recesses of the band interface. By way of example and not limitation, the absence of a cut or other suitable corresponding feature may result in a suction or vacuum forming in the band interface cavity below the in-place band 420, potentially hindering the stripping of the band 420 upon desired reopening.

[0095] In certain embodiments, the strap attachment 440 may have at least the structure and form required to constrain the strap 420, as described herein, and for durability, ease of manufacture, and / or ease of assembly. In certain embodiments, as a non-limiting example, the strap attachment 440 may include one or more rods, clips, buttons, posts, split posts, notches, hinges, and / or snap-fit ​​engagements. This is an example and not a limitation. Figure 3D , Figures 4A to 4F Several exemplary attachments 440 and features are shown. These are examples and not limitations. Figure 4AA specific embodiment of the clip attachment 440 is shown. In this specific embodiment, the clip attachment may be provided with snap-fit ​​clip features for reliable and rapid assembly. In this specific embodiment, one or more posts, holes, pins, and / or other positioning features (e.g., post 560) may be provided for aligning and / or constraining the band 420 to the ramp and / or float surface, for example, by inserting into and engaging corresponding holes in the band 420. In this specific embodiment, the clip attachment (e.g., clip 550 as a non-limiting embodiment) may include one or more retaining features to engage and / or retain the attachment, wherein the band 420 is held in place. This is an example and not a limitation. Figures 4D to 4F A particular embodiment of a clip 550 including a snap-fit ​​hook 570 is shown, which may provide one or more snap-fit ​​hooks for quick, reliable, and / or secure assembly. In a particular embodiment, a passage may be provided for detaching or removing the attachment and / or clip, for example via... Figures 4D to 4F One or more cutouts 580 are depicted in the non-limiting embodiments.

[0096] Figures 6A to 6B A schematic diagram of a head valve according to a particular embodiment is shown. In this particular embodiment, head valve 410 may be disposed in an exhaust valve assembly. In this particular embodiment, head valve 410 may be disposed downstream of the middle plate outlet 330 and may be calibrated (e.g., via a head valve spring or another suitable biasing member) to selectively open based on a minimum opening fluid pressure. By way of example and not limitation, head valve 410 may be calibrated to open at a fluid pressure equal to or greater than 5 kPa. In this particular embodiment, for example, with Figure 3C and Figure 3D The exemplary head valve 410, constructed in a non-limiting embodiment, may be referred to as an anti-drip valve, may be synonymous with an anti-drip valve, and / or may be used as an anti-drip valve. As an embodiment and not a limitation, the anti-drip valve may be configured to remain closed at low fluid pressures, for example to prevent fuel overfilling, fuel leakage, and / or fuel dripping, and may open only based on a predetermined and calibrated minimum static pressure acting on the upstream side of the head valve 410. Therefore, in a particular embodiment, the head valve 410 may be used as an anti-drip valve. As an embodiment and not a limitation, the anti-drip valve can prevent fuel overfilling by providing minimal resistance pressure rather than opening the passage. As an embodiment and not a limitation, the anti-drip valve can help reduce liquid retention losses in the exhaust valve assembly.

[0097] In certain embodiments, the head valve 410 may be provided with one or more flow-improving features to streamline and / or smooth the fluid flow through the head valve 410, for example, when the valve is open. This is an example, not a limitation, for example... Figure 6AAs depicted herein, the upstream or flow-oriented surfaces of head valve 410 (e.g., the upper surface of head valve 410) may include suitable streamlined flow-improving features, such as protrusion 510. By way of example and not limitation, protrusion 510 may include a conical front surface. By way of example and not limitation, one or more flow-oriented surfaces and / or flow interfaces of head valve 410 may preferentially avoid specific cavities, non-streamlined steps or surfaces, and / or other features that may increase flow losses and / or destabilize head valve operation based on flow dynamics. By way of example and not limitation, reducing fluid flow resistance losses, such as those described herein, can help increase the vapor velocity capability of the exhaust valve assembly.

[0098] In certain embodiments, the head valve 410 and / or other suitable features associated with the head valve chamber 520 may include a spring-guided structure and / or features. This is an example, not a limitation, of course. Figure 3D and Figure 6B As depicted, the head valve 410 may be provided with a head valve skirt 530 for stabilizing the head valve spring, for example by reducing or eliminating outlet spring buckling during installation and / or operation.

[0099] In certain embodiments, the diameter of head valve 410 can be determined based on desired head valve opening characteristics. As an example, and not a limitation, for a relatively small-diameter head valve compared to a relatively large-diameter head valve, a portion of the exposed flow-facing surface area of ​​the head valve varies differently between the smaller and larger valves when the valve changes between fully closed, partially open, and fully open states. Therefore, a larger-diameter head valve can provide more pronounced transition or valve switching (opening and / or closing) characteristics based on local pressure conditions. In certain embodiments, a larger-diameter head valve may be preferred, at least for valve switching characteristics, based on design requirements, while balancing the ability to provide a relatively large float cross-section to provide a sufficiently high cut-off height. Therefore, in some embodiments, for example... Figure 4B The specific cross-sectional shape of the crescent-shaped float 210 in the non-limiting embodiment shown may be preferred.

[0100] In certain embodiments, guiding and / or restricting features may be associated with the top surfaces of the float chamber 220, the middle plate 150, and / or the middle plate chamber 320, for example, to guide flow (e.g., a designed fuel vapor flow when the float chamber outlet orifice 270 is not sealed), and / or restrict, delay, separate, return, and / or reverse the initial or actual flow of liquid fuel that may be considered as an undesirable leakage as an effluent. This is by way of example and not limitation. Figures 5A to 5BAs depicted herein, one or more baffles (e.g., baffle 340), tortuous paths, orifice sizes and shapes, and / or orifice transition features (e.g., orifice transition 345) may be provided to act individually and / or collaboratively as guiding and / or confining features. As an example and not a limitation, fuel vapor flows may tend to entrain liquid fuel components and / or otherwise carry liquid fuel components with the vapor flow, particularly at high vapor flow rates. In certain embodiments, guiding and / or confining features, such as those described herein, can cause the liquid-carrying vapor flow to release or separate its liquid components, thus allowing the liquid components to flow based on the flow path and architecture provided with the features herein (e.g., the relative construction of baffles and barriers, and / or...). Figure 5A The downward slope or gradient of the upper surface and / or orifice transition 345 in the middle) causes the liquid to drip back. As an embodiment and not a limitation, the guiding and / or limiting features may reduce, separate and / or allow liquid carried out, for example due to vehicle acceleration and / or shaking, to return to the fuel tank.

[0101] In a particular embodiment, fluid fuel (e.g., fuel vapor) may further continue to flow from the middle plate outlet 330 to act on the head valve 410. In a particular embodiment, the head valve 410 may be disposed in a head valve chamber 520 separate from the float chamber 220. In a particular embodiment, the head valve chamber 520 may be disposed in or within the bottom plate 130. In a particular embodiment, internal portions of the top plate 110, the middle plate 150, and / or the bottom plate 130 may cooperate to form the head valve chamber 520. In a particular embodiment, the head valve chamber 520 may be disposed adjacent to the float chamber 220. By way of example and not limitation, the head valve chamber 520 may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the float chamber 220. By way of example and not limitation, the longitudinal axis (e.g., EE) of the head valve chamber 520 may be parallel to or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis (e.g., LL) of the float chamber 220.

[0102] In certain embodiments, one or more interlocking and / or sealing features may be provided to assemble parts of the exhaust valve assembly and / or effectively contain and seal fuel-related fluids within the exhaust valve assembly. As an example, and not a limitation, interlocking tabs may be provided to connect two or more of the base plate 130, middle plate 150, and / or top plate 110. As an example, and not a limitation, labyrinth seals (e.g., such as...) Figure 5A The seal 350 depicted in the image is used for the mating of the top plate 110 and the middle plate 150; for example, such as... Figure 3C and Figure 5BThe seals depicted for the mating of the middle plate 150 and the bottom plate 130; for example, seals 355 (as configured as a seal head valve chamber 520) can be disposed between the mating surfaces of the exhaust valve assembly components to firmly prevent any cross-sealing fluid communication, leakage, and / or contamination. In certain embodiments, seals such as labyrinth seals can provide press-fit capability for assembly, either alone or additionally. In certain embodiments, other types of seals, such as O-rings, can be used, either alone or additionally, in the exhaust valve assembly.

[0103] It is now believed that the benefits and advantages of the inventive concept have been fully demonstrated by the disclosed exemplary embodiments.

[0104] Terms and Conditions

[0105] Clause 1. An exhaust valve assembly comprising: a housing including a float chamber; a float assembly disposed within the float chamber and including a float configured to be movable along a longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the float includes one or more float guide structures; and a plate assembly including a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the plate assembly being configured to face the float assembly within the float chamber from the first side, wherein the first side of the plate assembly is provided with one or more plate guide structures configured to operatively engage with one or more float guide structures respectively to constrain the float and guide the movement of the float along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein a first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each float guide structure is less than a second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float to facilitate reducing jamming associated with the movement of the float, each radial distance being obtained in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

[0106] Clause 2. The exhaust valve assembly according to Clause 1, wherein the plate assembly is provided with a first exhaust port aligned with the float chamber.

[0107] Clause 3. An exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 or 2, wherein the axis passing through at least two float guide structures intersects the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

[0108] Clause 4. An exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the first radial distance is less than or equal to half of the second radial distance.

[0109] Clause 5. An exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 2 to 4, wherein one or more float guide structures include ribs or tracks configured to operatively engage with one or more plate guide structures.

[0110] Clause 6. An exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 2 to 5, wherein one or more plate guide structures include ribs or tracks configured to operatively engage with one or more float guide structures.

[0111] Clause 7. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 2 to 6, wherein the float assembly further includes a platform disposed on the upper surface of the float, the platform being inclined at a non-parallel angle relative to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

[0112] Clause 8. The exhaust valve assembly as described in Clause 7, wherein the platform is tilted relative to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis at an angle between five and thirty degrees.

[0113] Clause 9. The exhaust valve assembly according to Clause 7, wherein the float assembly further includes a membrane extending along a length axis and including a first end fixed to a first attachment of the float assembly, a second end disposed opposite to the first end and fixed to a second attachment of the float assembly, and a slack portion associated with the second end.

[0114] Clause 10. The vent valve assembly according to Clause 9, wherein, corresponding to the highest position of the float along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, the membrane is configured to cover and seal the first vent orifice, at least a portion of the membrane is supported by the platform, wherein, based on the float moving away from the highest position, the membrane is configured to reopen the vent orifice, the reopening being associated with the peeling of the first end-initiated membrane from the first vent orifice, and wherein at least a portion of the slack portion of the membrane includes curvature relative to an axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the membrane.

[0115] Clause 11. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 9 or 10, wherein the first exhaust orifice includes an elongated profile aligned with the longitudinal axis of the membrane.

[0116] Clause 12. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 9 to 11, wherein the relaxed portion of the membrane promotes sealing of the first exhaust orifice by facilitating alignment and constraint of the membrane relative to the exhaust orifice.

[0117] Clause 13. An exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 7 to 12, wherein the upper surface of the platform includes a cavity comprising an elongated profile aligned with the longitudinal axis of the platform.

[0118] Clause 14. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 2 to 13 further includes a head valve assembly configured to selectively open based on a fluid pressure acting on the head valve assembly exceeding a threshold opening pressure.

[0119] Clause 15. The exhaust valve assembly according to Clause 14, wherein the second side of the plate assembly includes a plate chamber, and wherein the plate assembly includes a second exhaust port that is separately disposed from the first exhaust port and aligned with the head valve assembly.

[0120] Clause 16. An exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 14 or 15, wherein the head valve assembly is arranged adjacent to the float assembly such that a first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly, and wherein the head valve assembly is arranged in fluid communication with the exhaust outlet of the exhaust valve assembly.

[0121] Clause 17. The exhaust valve assembly according to Clause 16 further includes a longitudinal axis of a head valve assembly, the longitudinal axis of which is laterally offset from and oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

[0122] Clause 18. An exhaust valve assembly according to any one of Clauses 14 to 17, wherein the float comprises a cross-sectional shape including a cutout configured to receive at least a portion of the head valve assembly.

[0123] Clause 19. A fuel tank valve system comprising: a fuel tank including an exhaust outlet; an exhaust valve assembly operatively coupled to a housing of the fuel tank, the exhaust valve assembly including: a float chamber; a float assembly disposed within the float chamber and including a float configured to be movable along a longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the float includes one or more float guide structures; a plate assembly including a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the plate assembly being configured such that the first side faces the float assembly within the float chamber, wherein the first side of the plate assembly is provided with one or more plate guide structures configured to operatively engage with one or more float guide structures respectively. The device includes a constrained float and a head valve assembly configured to selectively open based on a fluid pressure acting on the head valve assembly exceeding a threshold opening pressure, wherein a first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each float guide structure is less than a second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float, in order to reduce jamming associated with the movement of the float, each radial distance being obtained in a plane passing through the float and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the head valve assembly is arranged adjacent to the float assembly such that a first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly, and wherein the head valve assembly is arranged in fluid communication with an exhaust outlet.

[0124] Clause 20. A method of assembling an exhaust valve assembly, comprising: providing a float assembly within a housing of the exhaust valve assembly such that a float of the float assembly is movable along a longitudinal axis of the float assembly, a first side of a plate assembly further configured to face the float assembly; operatively engaging one or more guide structures of the float assembly with one or more guide structures of the plate assembly respectively to constrain and guide the movement of the float along the longitudinal axis; providing a head valve assembly adjacent to the float assembly such that a first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly; and providing a plate assembly having a first exhaust port aligned with the float assembly and a second exhaust port aligned with the head valve assembly, wherein a first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each guide structure of the float assembly is less than a second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float to reduce jamming associated with the movement of the float, each radial distance being obtained in a plane passing through the float and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

[0125] other

[0126] The above description of embodiments has been provided for illustrative and descriptive purposes. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting of this disclosure. Various elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but are interchangeable where applicable and can be used in selected embodiments, even if not specifically shown or described. For example, each feature described in one embodiment may be able to be combined with one or more other desired features from other embodiments, resulting in other embodiments that may not be described in words or by reference to the accompanying drawings, but are fully contemplated. It should also be understood that changes and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art within the scope of this disclosure, description, and / or the appended claims. Such changes are fully considered herein and are not considered to depart from this disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this disclosure.

[0127] The terms used in the claims should be interpreted with the broadest reasonable interpretation consistent with the foregoing description. For example, the use of the articles “a” or “the” when describing an element should not be interpreted as excluding multiple elements. Similarly, the statement of “or” should be interpreted as inclusive, such that the statement of “A or B” does not exclude “A and B” unless it is clear from the context or the foregoing description that it is intended to refer only to one of A and B. Furthermore, the statement of “at least one of A, B, and C” should be interpreted as one or more of a set of elements consisting of A, B, and C, and should not be interpreted as requiring at least one of each of the listed elements A, B, and C, regardless of whether A, B, and C are related as a category or otherwise. Moreover, the statement of “A, B, and / or C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” should be interpreted as including any singular entity from the listed elements, such as A; any subset from the listed elements, such as A and B; or the entire list of elements A, B, and C.

[0128] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings provided herein are schematic rather than literal or precise; components and aspects of the drawings do not necessarily need to be drawn to scale. Furthermore, while in many cases the same reference numerals or numbers may indicate corresponding parts in different views, the same parts may not always have the same reference numerals or markings in each view. Additionally, the same parts may not be marked in every view or figure. Numerical ranges referenced in this application should be interpreted as including the endpoints of the ranges. Specific axes that may be omitted here in some figures, such as one or more axes of rotation, lateral axes, and / or longitudinal axes, should be interpreted as present in each figure or situation to which they are applied or which have a reasonable correspondence.

Claims

1. An exhaust valve assembly, comprising: The casing includes the float chamber; A float assembly, disposed within the float chamber and including a float configured to move along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the float includes one or more float guide structures; as well as A plate assembly includes a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the plate assembly being configured such that the first side faces the float assembly within the float chamber, wherein the first side of the plate assembly is provided with one or more plate guide structures, the one or more plate guide structures being configured to operatively engage with one or more float guide structures respectively to constrain or guide the movement of the float along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly. The first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each of the float guide structures is less than the second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float, in order to reduce jamming associated with the movement of the float. Each radial distance is obtained in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

2. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The plate assembly is provided with a first vent port aligned with the float chamber.

3. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The axis passing through at least two of the float guide structures intersects the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

4. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The first radial distance is less than or equal to half of the second radial distance.

5. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, One or more of the said float guiding structures include ribs or tracks configured to operatively engage with one or more of the said plate guiding structures.

6. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, One or more of the plate guide structures include ribs or tracks configured to operatively engage with one or more of the float guide structures.

7. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein, The float assembly also includes a platform disposed on the upper surface of the float, the platform being tilted at a non-parallel angle relative to a plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis.

8. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The platform is tilted relative to the plane orthogonal to the longitudinal axis at an angle between five and thirty degrees.

9. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 7, wherein, The float assembly further includes a membrane that extends along a length axis and includes a first end of a first attachment fixed to the float assembly, a second end of a second attachment disposed opposite to the first end and fixed to the float assembly, and a slack portion associated with the second end.

10. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 9, wherein, Corresponding to the highest position of the float along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, the membrane is configured to cover and seal the first vent, and at least a portion of the membrane is supported by the platform. Wherein, based on the float moving away from the highest position, the membrane is configured to reopen the first vent port, and reopening is associated with peeling the membrane from the first vent port starting from the first end, and Wherein, at least a portion of the relaxed portion of the membrane includes curvature relative to an axis perpendicular to the length axis of the membrane.

11. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The first vent orifice includes an elongated profile aligned with the longitudinal axis of the membrane.

12. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein, The relaxed portion of the membrane promotes the sealing of the first vent by facilitating the alignment and constraint of the membrane relative to the first vent.

13. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 7 to 12, wherein, The upper surface of the platform includes a cavity, the cavity comprising an elongated profile aligned with the longitudinal axis of the platform.

14. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 13, further comprising a head valve assembly configured to selectively open based on a fluid pressure acting on the head valve assembly exceeding a threshold opening pressure.

15. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 14, wherein, The second side of the plate assembly includes a plate chamber, and wherein the plate assembly includes a second exhaust port that is disposed separately from the first exhaust port and aligned with the head valve assembly.

16. The exhaust valve assembly according to claim 14 or 15, wherein, The head valve assembly is positioned adjacent to the float assembly such that the first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly, and wherein the head valve assembly is configured to be in fluid communication with the exhaust outlet of the exhaust valve assembly.

17. The exhaust valve assembly of claim 16, further comprising a longitudinal axis of the head valve assembly, the longitudinal axis of the head valve assembly being laterally offset from and oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

18. The exhaust valve assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 17, wherein, The float includes a cross-sectional shape with a cutout configured to accommodate at least a portion of the head valve assembly.

19. A fuel tank valve system, comprising: Fuel tank, including exhaust outlet; An exhaust valve assembly, operatively connected to the housing of the fuel tank, the exhaust valve assembly comprising: Float chamber; A float assembly, disposed within the float chamber and including a float configured to move along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, wherein the float includes one or more float guiding structures; A plate assembly, including a first side and a second side opposite to the first side, the plate assembly being configured such that the first side faces the float assembly within the float chamber, wherein the first side of the plate assembly is provided with one or more plate guide structures, the one or more plate guide structures being configured to operatively engage with one or more float guide structures respectively to constrain or guide the movement of the float along the longitudinal axis; and A head valve assembly is configured to selectively open based on the fluid pressure acting on the head valve assembly exceeding a threshold opening pressure. The first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each of the float guide structures is smaller than the second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float, in order to reduce jamming associated with the movement of the float. Each radial distance is obtained in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly. The head valve assembly is positioned adjacent to the float assembly such that the first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly. The head valve assembly is configured to be in fluid communication with the exhaust outlet.

20. A method of assembling an exhaust valve assembly, comprising: A float assembly is provided within the housing of the exhaust valve assembly, such that the float of the float assembly can move along the longitudinal axis of the float assembly, and the first side of the plate assembly is configured to face the float assembly; One or more guide structures of the float assembly are operatively engaged with one or more guide structures of the plate assembly to constrain or guide the movement of the float along the longitudinal axis; A head valve assembly is provided adjacent to the float assembly such that the first side of the plate assembly faces the head valve assembly; as well as A plate assembly is provided, the plate assembly having a first vent port aligned with the float assembly and a second vent port aligned with the head valve assembly. The first radial distance between the longitudinal axis and each guide structure of the float assembly is less than the second radial distance between the longitudinal axis and the outer periphery of the float, in order to reduce jamming associated with the movement of the float. Each radial distance is obtained in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the float assembly.

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