Practical autogas filling adapter for vehicles with european-type (dish-type) LPG filling valve

Abstract

The invention relates to an autogas LPG filling adapter developed for LPG-fueled vehicles equipped with a European-type (DISH-type) LPG filling valve.

Description

[0001] PRACTICAL AUTOGAS FILLING ADAPTER FOR VEHICLES WITH EUROPEAN- TYPE (DISH-TYPE) LPG FILLING VALVE

[0002] Technical Field:

[0003] The invention relates to an autogas filling adapter that enables LPG- fueled vehicles equipped with European-type (DISH-type) LPG filling valves to connect to universal LPG filling nozzles. Background of the Invention:

[0004] LPG filling valves serve as the connection point that allows liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) refueling into the fuel tank of vehicles using LPG. These valves ensure a safe connection between the LPG filling nozzle (gun) and the vehicle at LPG filling stations, facilitating fuel transfer and preventing leaks that may cause accidents and environmental hazards.

[0005] Different types of LPG filling valves are used, depending on regional standards, including the ACME type, Bajonet type, Dish type (also known as the European Type), and Click-On type. Each design aims to match the LPG filling nozzle structures used in the respective region. The European Type filling valve is widely used in Europe, offering easy installation and setup.

[0006] In many retrofitted LPG systems, the filling valve is located under the trunk or on the bumper, allowing the LPG filling nozzle (gun) to be directly connected. However, in modem vehicles, the LPG filling valve is placed inside the gasoline filler cap area to avoid aesthetic issues and to provide safety advantages. In these systems, a threaded adapter must be attached for every LPG refueling operation. This adapter is screwed onto the filling valve for each refueling and removed afterward, requiring the user or station to store the adapter.

[0007] European-type LPG filling valves require screwing the filling adapter three full turns clockwise for proper engagement, followed by connecting the LPG filling nozzle (gun) . This repetitive threading operation, which occurs during every refueling, is time-consuming and inconvenient. Additionally, improper installation or wom / damaged threads lead to significant safety risks. A damaged threaded adapter may loosen or detach under pressure, releasing LPG into the atmosphere and potentially causing a fire, explosion, and resulting in death or injury.

[0008] Although various solutions have been proposed in prior art, none adequately address these issues. Existing systems lack fast, thread-free, sealed, and safe connection mechanisms.

[0009] Several proposals and applications exist in prior art for autogas filling adapters; however, these developments remain insufficient. The following examples from the prior art are provided below. The prior-art document with publication number "EP2330330A1" relates to LPG-powered vehicles and, more specifically, to the process of filling LPG tanks. It describes a structurecomprising an adapter compatible with the filling unit and an element for activating the check valve.

[0010] The prior-art document with publication number "US10184612B2" describes an adapter used to connect the coupling element to the filling nozzle. It features a connector body, a handwheel, and a washer mounted on the body, along with a locking element that is selectively positioned in the groove of the quick-connect part, enabling interaction with the filling nozzle. A cam element is also positioned between the connector body and the washer.

[0011] Although various autogas filling adapters are known in the prior art, they generally lack features such as quick connection, threaded-free engagement, sealing gaskets, and enhanced safety. Consequently, the limitations of existing solutions emphasize the need for an improved system in this technical field.

[0012] Purpose of the Invention:

[0013] The primary purpose of the invention is to adapt European-type (DISH-type) LPG filling valves to universal LPG filling nozzles (guns) .

[0014] Another purpose is to eliminate the threaded surfaces inside the filling valve and replace them with two hemispherical guides moving within channels, making the connection faster and safer. Another purpose is easy attachment and removal, shortening refueling time.

[0015] Another purpose is compatibility with mass production.

[0016] Another purpose is enabling easy system conversion / retrofit.

[0017] Description of the figures:

[0018] FIGURE 1: This drawing illustrates the side view of the practical LPG filling valve adapter designed for LPG-fueled vehicles equipped with a European-type LPG filling valve, the subject of the invention.

[0019] FIGURE 2: This drawing illustrates the front view of the practical LPG filling valve adapter designed for LPG-fueled vehicles equipped with a European-style LPG filling valve.

[0020] FIGURE 3: It shows the bottom view of the practical LPG filling valve adapter developed for LPG-fueled vehicles with a European-style LPG filling valve.

[0021] FIGURE 4: This drawing displays the isometric view of the practical LPG filling valve adapter, designed for LPG-fueled vehicles with a European-type LPG filling valve.

[0022] FIGURE 5: This drawing shows the front view of the practical LPG filling valve designed for LPG-fueled vehicles equipped with an internal European-type LPG filling valve.FIGURE 6: This is a top-view drawing of the practical LPG filling valve designed for LPG-fueled vehicles equipped with an internal European-type LPG filling valve.

[0023] FIGURE 7: This is the isometric drawing of the practical LPG filling valve designed for LPG-fueled vehicles equipped with an internal European-type LPG filling valve.

[0024] Reference Numbers:

[0025] 1. Body-1

[0026] 2. Gasket

[0027] 3. Hemispherical Guide

[0028] 4. Fixing Hole-1

[0029] 5. LPG filling nozzle housing

[0030] 6. Body-2

[0031] 7. Threaded Connection Mouth

[0032] 8. Fixing Hole-2

[0033] 9. Filling Mouth

[0034] 10. Guide Channel

[0035] 100. LPG Filling Valve

[0036] 200. LPG Filling Valve Adapter

[0037] Description of the Invention:

[0038] The invention pertains to a LPG filling adapter designed for LPG-powered vehicles equipped with a European-style LPG filling valve.

[0039] The product of the invention is designed for use in vehicles with a European-style LPG filling valve. It consists of two main parts. The first is the LPG filling valve (100), which is designed according to the new in-tank configuration. The second part is the LPG filling valve adapter (200), which fits with the filling valve.

[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, the body-1 (1) and body-2 (6) sections are made from steel or high-strength metal materials. The internal safety system components, such as the safety spring, ball, and / or check valve, used to maintain pressure in the line after filling are also made from steel, stainless steel, copper, bronze, aluminum, or brass.

[0041] The LPG filling valve (100) comprises body-2 (6), a threaded connection mouth (7), a fixing hole-2 (8), a filling mouth (9), and a guide channel (10). It ensures that LPG fuel transferred fromthe LPG filling nozzle at fueling stations is safely, simply, and practically delivered to the fuel pipeline connected to the LPG tank through the LPG filling valve adapter (200). It also prevents the discharge of pressurized LPG gas remaining inside the pipe after the filling process is finished.

[0042] The LPG filling valve (100) comprises body-2 (6), which supvalves and connects the components of the LPG filling valve (100), including the threaded connection mouth (7), fixing hole-2 (8), filling mouth (9), and guide channel (10). The threaded connection mouth (7) is the section where the pipe connecting the LPG filling valve (100) to the LPG tank on the vehicle attaches. The fixing hole-2 (8), at least two in number, ensures the secure mounting of the LPG filling valve (100) onto the vehicle and restricts its movement. The filling mouth (9), located on the LPG filling valve (100), enables alignment between the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200), facilitating the transfer of LPG from the filling nozzle to the vehicle's fuel tank. The guide channel (10), also located on the LPG filling valve (100), defines the movement path of the hemispherical guides (3) on the LPG filling valve adapter (200), limits the adapter's (200) axial and radial movements, enables the adapter (200) to move toward the filling valve (100) for gasket (2) compression and sealing, and permits rotational movement within a specified angle so that the LPG filling valve adapter (200) can be locked onto the LPG filling valve (100). In one embodiment of the invention, body-2 (6) also includes safety systems, such as a check valve or a ball-and-spring assembly, which are standard components used to maintain pressure in the pipeline after the LPG filling process.

[0043] Thanks to the threaded structure on the connection mouth (7), the pipe can be safely connected without the need for any additional safety element, provided that a pipe of suitable diameter and strength is used. If deemed necessary by the user and / or installation technician, additional safety components (such as clamps, threaded couplings, etc.) may be added.

[0044] Fixing hole-2 (8) can be used with bolts, nuts, or screw-type fasteners based on the user's or installation technician's preference. The LPG filling valve (100) can be mounted on the vehicle body, an extension plate, or the plastic bumper.

[0045] The LPG filling valve adapter (200) includes body-1 (1), gasket (2), hemispherical guide (3), fixing hole-1 (4), and LPG filling nozzle housing (5). It provides a safe, simple, and practical way to transfer LPG fuel from LPG filling nozzles at fuel stations to the LPG filling valve (100). The LPG filling valve adapter (200) includes body-1 (1), which holds the components of the LPG filling valve adapter (200), such as the gasket (2), the hemispherical guide (3), and fixing hole-1 (4). The gasket (2), positioned on body-1 (1), functions as the sealing element to ensure a leakproof connection between the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200) during gas filling. The hemispherical guide (3), mounted on the adapter (200) in a hemispherical shape, is oriented in opposite directions at a 180° angle. This design facilitates engagement between the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200), keeping these components securely interlocked during filling to resist forces that could separate the adapter from the filling valve. It also maintains proper alignment of both parts. The adapter (200) features at least two fixing hole elements (4), allowing it to be fixed, if desired, for direct LPG refueling,using bolts, nuts, or screws of suitable thickness, based on user or installer preference. Additionally, the LPG filling nozzle housing (5) located on the LPG filling valve adapter (200) enables LPG filling nozzles used at fuel stations to be securely connected to the adapter (200). This ensures a leak-proof transfer of gas from the LPG filling valve (100) to the LPG filling line and the LPG tank.

[0046] The gasket (2) is used to close the gaps between the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200) by providing some elasticity when the connection between the two parts is complete.

[0047] The hemispherical guide (3) moves along the guide channel (10) located on body -2 (6). This movement helps ensure that the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200) stay aligned as intended. When the gasket (2) is compressed, it creates additional friction between the hemispherical guide (3) and the guide channel (10). Before any pressure from LPG filling acts on the system, this friction, along with the slope at the end of the guide channel (10), prevents the two parts from separating.

[0048] In one version of the invention, the LPG filling nozzle housing (5) of the LPG filling valve functions as the section where the LPG filling nozzle connects at the filling station. The hemispherical guides (3) face each other and include at least two protrusions. These guides ensure the LPG filling valve adapter (200) fits into the guide channel (10) inside the filling valve, determine the proper sealing distance, and lock both parts together. A sealing gasket (2) is used to prevent leaks between the two components.

[0049] In one embodiment of the invention, the hemispherical guide (3) has a hemispherical diameter of 3±0.5 mm, positioned opposite each other, and the sealing gasket (2) used in the system has a standard inner diameter of 8±0.5 mm, an outer diameter of 12±1 mm, and a thickness of 1.5±0.5 mm.

[0050] The LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200), which constitute the invention, have the exact dimensions as the currently used LPG filling valves and adapters. The guide channel (10) starts from the upper surface of the part and extends downward, perpendicular to it, by 5±1 mm. Then, it continues clockwise as a 3±0.7 mm wide channel for 90°. The guide channel (10) is where the hemispherical guide (3) is seated. The hemispherical guide (3) is first pressed downward into the guide channel (10), then rotated 90° clockwise to attach.

[0051] In a vehicle with the system installed, the practical LPG filling adapter (200) aligns with the guide points on the LPG filling valve (100). It is then pressed (pushed) 5 mm toward the filling valve to compress the gasket and seat the guides into the channel. Afterward, the practical LPG filling adapter (200) is rotated 90° clockwise to lock into place. To disassemble, perform the same steps in reverse.

[0052] The LPG filling valve adapter described in the invention features a unique design, which alters how it connects to the LPG filling valve. Unlike conventional LPG filling valves, which have a threaded surface, this valve features channels that allow two spherical guides to move. The adapter (200), attached during refueling, also lacks threads and instead has two hemisphericalconnection guides (3) positioned opposite each other. To connect the adapter to the filling valve (100), there is no need for the lengthy and tiring process of rotating the adapter three full turns, as with threaded systems. Instead, the adapter is gently pressed onto the LPG filling valve (100), allowing it to seat on the collar. Then, a light clockwise turn fully engages the adapter with the filling valve (100). To detach the adapter, the process is reversed. Thanks to this invention, attaching and detaching the adapter is more straightforward and more practical. It reduces the LPG refueling time and allows for safer refueling. The system is durable, easy to manufacture, and suitable for mass production. For vehicles equipped with a European-style (DISH-type) LPG filling valve, the system can be adapted by replacing the internal filling valve (100), located near the fuel cap area, and providing the user or the refueling station with a compatible LPG filling valve adapter (200).

[0053] The invention features a filling adapter that allows LPG filling valves, whether located inside the gas tank cap area as an internal European-style filling valve or mounted on the bumper surface or beneath the bumper, to be compatible with filling nozzles used in Tiirkiye and many European countries. The LPG filling valve adapter (200) and the filling valve (100) utilize a hemispherical pin-and-seat system. Attaching and detaching the LPG filling valve adapter (200) using threaded engagement can be challenging for users. Additionally, when two sealing valves are present, removing the adapter from the filling valve (100) becomes difficult due to the pressure between the valves. In the hemispherical guide (3) system of the invention, point or localized linear contact areas are created, resulting in significantly lower friction forces. As a result, the torque required for tightening and loosening is significantly reduced. Furthermore, manufacturing the LPG filling valve adapter (200) as a single piece offers advantages in ease of use and storage. The filling adapter included in the invention minimizes user error and helps reduce potential safety risks. The invention also addresses safety and installation issues by enabling the gradual release of pressurized fuel trapped between the valves during the removal of the LPG filling valve adapter (200) from the filling valve (100). LPG filling valve adapter (200) is hand-operated; no tools needed. The LPG filling valve adapter (200) can be quickly connected to the LPG filling valve (100) with just two simple hand motions.

[0054] Since the filling valve (100) included in the invention remains permanently mounted on the main filling valve once installed, it is efficient for use. The hemispherical guides (3) and the sealing gasket (2) located within the structure of the LPG filling valve adapter ensure leak-tightness between the LPG filling valve adapter (200) and the filling valve (100). As a result, even the slightest movement in the opposite direction of the locking mechanism can cause the discharge of pressurized gas trapped between the two sealing valves through the sealing gasket (2).

[0055] Because the contact surface area is smaller than that of threaded systems and due to the presence of point contact, the torque needed to rotate the filling adapter is much lower compared to threaded systems.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An autogas filling adapter characterized in that:- It comprises a body-2 (6), connection mouth (7), fixing hole-2 (8), filling mouth (9), and guide channel (10), enabling LPG transferred from LPG filling nozzle (gun) at fuel stations to be delivered through the LPG filling valve adapter (200) to the fuel pipe line connected to the LPG tank, and preventing the pressurized LPG gas in the pipe from being discharged after completion of the filling process, forming the LPG filling valve (100);- It comprises a body-1 (1), gasket (2), hemispherical guide (3), fixing hole-1 (4), and LPG filling nozzle housing (5), enabling LPG transferred from LPG filling nozzles at fuel stations to be delivered to the LPG filling valve (100), constituting the LPG filling valve adapter (200).

2. The autogas filling adapter according to Claim 1, characterized in that the LPG filling valve adapter (200);- comprises body-1 (1), which contains the components of the LPG filling valve adapter (200), including the gasket (2), hemispherical guide (3), and fixing hole-1 (4);- comprises a gasket (2) on body-1 (1), serving as a sealing element ensuring tightness between the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200) during gas filling;- comprises a hemispherical guide (3), positioned in opposite directions with a 180° angle, ensuring the engagement between the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200), resisting forces that tend to separate the adapter from the filling valve during filling, and keeping the filling valve and adapter in the desired alignment;- comprises at least two fixing holes (1) (4) on the LPG filling valve adapter (200), allowing the adapter to be fixed using bolts / nuts or screws of suitable thickness, depending on the user's or installation supervisor's preference;- comprises a LPG filling nozzle housing (5) on the LPG filling adapter (200), enabling LPG filling nozzles used at fuel stations to be securely connected to the adapter (200), ensuring leakproof transfer of gas from LPG filling nozzles to the LPG filling valve (100).

3. The autogas filling adapter according to Claim 1, characterized in that the LPG filling valve (100);- comprises body-2 (6), containing the components of the LPG filling valve (100), including connection mouth (7), fixing hole-2 (8), filling mouth (9), and guide channel (10);- comprises the threaded connection mouth (7) where the pipe connecting the LPG tank to the filling valve is attached;- comprises at least two fixing holes (2) (8) ensuring proper mounting of the LPG filling valve (100) onto the vehicle and limiting its movement;- comprises a filling mouth (9) ensuring alignment between the LPG filling valve (100) and the LPG filling valve adapter (200), enabling LPG delivered through the LPG filling nozzle to be transferred to the vehicle's fuel tank;- comprises a guide channel (10) determining the movement path of the hemispherical guides (3), limiting axial and radial movements of the adapter (200), ensuring sealing through gasket (2) compression, and allowing rotational movement up to a defined angle for locking the adapter to the filling valve.

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