A fuel system for a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention discloses a fuel system (200) for a vehicle (100). The fuel system (200) comprises at least one fuel tank (202) to store fuel, at least one valve (204), and one or more pressure sensors (206). The fuel tank (202) is configured with a frame assembly (102) of the vehicle (100). The valve (204) is coupled to at 5 least one opening of the fuel tank (202). The one or more pressure sensors (206) is fluidically coupled to the valve (204). The one or more pressure sensors (206) is disposed on either side of the valve (204). The one or more pressure sensors (206) is configured ahead of a tail lamp assembly, behind a head tube (108) and above an axis FW-RW connecting the axles of one or more front wheels and one or more rear 10 wheels of the vehicle (100).

Description

TITLE OF INVENTION:A FUEL SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present subject matter is related, in general to a vehicle, and more particularly, but not exclusively to a fuel system for a vehicle.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) is a widely used alternative fuel for vehicles due to its environmental and economic advantages. Unlike conventional liquid fuels, CNG is stored in high-pressure tanks in gaseous form. Measuring the fuel level in CNG tanks is critical for ensuring optimal vehicle operation and providing drivers with accurate fuel level information. However, due to the high-pressure storage conditions of the CNG, measuring the fuel level in CNG tanks presents distinct challenges.

[0003] Currently, a pressure gauge which is a mechanical device used to measure and display pressure, that converts pressure into mechanical motion that moves the pointer on a dial to indicate the pressure level. Conventionally, a pressure gauge is installed on the fuel tank that monitors the internal pressure of the CNG. As the gas is consumed, the pressure in the tank decreases proportionally which is used to estimate the remaining fuel level in the tank. The mounting of pressure gauges in the fuel system of CNG vehicles, particularly in saddle type vehicles has several challenges.

[0004] The existing pressure gauges are subject to inaccuracies and are not reliable, especially in a dynamic environment within the vehicle. Vibrations from the vehicle's operation can lead to fluctuations in readings, compromising the reliability of the data. Additionally, exposure to extreme temperatures within the engine compartment can alter the performance of the pressure gauge, as materials used in the pressure gauge may expand or contract, affecting calibration. Furthermore, contamination from fuel residues or external debris can obstruct the sensing mechanisms, leading to inaccurate readings. Without accurate pressurereadings issues such as pressure fluctuations, leaks, and poor fuel regulation may go undetected, impacting both the safety and performance of the vehicle.

[0005] Additionally, particularly in saddle type vehicles, the compact nature of CNG fuel systems poses significant spatial challenges in mounting pressure gauges without compromising the overall functionality of the fuel system. The available space is often limited due to the integration of other critical components, such as fuel injectors, pressure regulators, and fuel tanks. The pressure gauge has to be mounted with respect to the space constraints while ensuring ease of assembly and serviceability.

[0006] Accordingly, a need or requirement still exists for a fuel system for a vehicle that can accurately and reliably measure the internal pressure of CNG in the fuel tank. There is a need for a fuel system for a vehicle that provides enhanced accuracy, reliability, ease of assembly, space efficiency, and serviceability.

[0007] Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional and traditional approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art, through comparison of described systems with some aspects of the present disclosure, as set forth in the remainder of the present application and with reference to the drawings.SUMMARY

[0008] The following summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. In addition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and features described below, further aspects, embodiments, and features will become apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detailed description.

[0009] In accordance with embodiments, the present subject matter relates to a fuel system for a vehicle. The fuel system comprises at least one fuel tank to store fuel, at least one valve, and one or more pressure sensors. The at least one fuel tank is configured with a frame assembly of the vehicle. The at least one valve is coupled to at least one opening of the at least one fuel tank. The one or more pressure sensors are fluidically coupled to the at least one valve and is configured to sense a pressureof fuel in the at least one fuel tank. The one or more pressure sensors are disposed on either side of the valve, such that the one or more pressure sensors are configured ahead of a tail lamp assembly, behind a head tube, and above an axis FW-RW connecting the axles of one or more front wheels and one or more rear wheels of the vehicle.

[0010] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors being communicatively coupled with a control unit of the vehicle. The one or more pressure sensors are configured to send data associated with the sensed pressure of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank to the control unit, wherein the control unit being configured to determine, in real-time, volume of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank based on the received data from the one or more sensors.

[0011] In an embodiment, the fuel system comprises one or more pressure reducers connected to the valve. The one or more pressure reducers are laterally offset from a central axis L-L’ extended in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle such that the one or more pressure sensors are configured on a same side of the one or more pressure reducers between the valve and the one or more pressure reducers, or on a side opposite to the side of the one or more pressure reducers with respect to the central axis L-L’.

[0012] In an embodiment, the fuel system comprises a refueling unit connected to the valve. The refueling unit is laterally offset from a central axis L-L’ extended in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle such that the one or more pressure sensors are configured on a same side of the refueling unit between the valve and the refueling unit, or on a side opposite to the side of the refueling unit with respect to the central axis (L-L’).

[0013] In an embodiment, the frame assembly comprises a rear frame portion. The rear frame portion includes a plurality of side tubes, and a cross bar. The cross bar is disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion and is configured to connect the plurality of side tubes such the one or more pressure sensors is disposed between the plurality of side tubes and ahead of the cross bar.

[0014] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors being disposed between the at least one fuel tank and any one of the plurality of side tubes.

[0015] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors being disposed rearward of the at least one fuel tank and forward of the cross bar, in a vehicle frontrear direction.

[0016] In accordance with another aspect, the present subject matter additionally relates to a vehicle. The vehicle comprises a frame assembly, and a fuel system. The frame assembly comprises a head tube, a front frame portion coupled to the head tube, and a rear frame portion coupled to the front frame portion. The fuel system is configured to the frame assembly and comprises at least one fuel tank to store fuel, at least one valve, and one or more pressure sensors. The at least one fuel tank is configured with a frame assembly of the vehicle. The at least one valve is coupled to at least one opening of the at least one fuel tank. The one or more pressure sensors are fluidically coupled to the at least one valve and is configured to sense a pressure of fuel in the at least one fuel tank. The one or more pressure sensors are disposed on either side of the valve, such that the one or more pressure sensors are configured ahead of a tail lamp assembly, behind a head tube, and above an axis FW-RW connecting the axles of one or more front wheels and one or more rear wheels of the vehicle.

[0017] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors being communicatively coupled with a control unit of the vehicle. The one or more pressure sensors are configured to send data associated with the sensed pressure of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank to the control unit, wherein the control unit being configured to determine, in real-time, volume of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank.

[0018] In an embodiment, the rear frame portion comprising a plurality of side tubes, and a cross bar. The cross bar is disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion and is configured to connect the plurality of side tubes such the one or more pressure sensors is disposed between the plurality of side tubes and ahead of the cross bar.

[0019] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors being disposed between the at least one fuel tank and any one of the plurality of side tubes.

[0020] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors being disposed rearward of the at least one fuel tank and forward of the cross bar, in a vehicle frontrear direction.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a frame assembly with a fuel system of a vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 illustrates a top view of a rear frame portion of the vehicle depicting the fuel system, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 3 illustrates a rear isometric view of a rear frame portion of the vehicle with the fuel system, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of a fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 5 illustrates a portion of a fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 6 illustrates a rear isometric view of the fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The present disclosure may be best understood with reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. Various embodiments are discussed below with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed descriptions given herein with respect to thefigures are simply for explanatory purposes as the system may extend beyond the described embodiments. For example, the teachings presented, and the needs of a particular application may yield multiple alternative and suitable approaches to implement the functionality of any detail described herein. Therefore, any approach may extend beyond the particular implementation choices in the following embodiments described and shown.

[0029] References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example,” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment or example necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0030] The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with different embodiments. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather those embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention relates to a vehicle that operates on CNG, which may be an Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) based vehicle, or a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). A person skilled in the art would appreciate that the present invention is not limited to a two-wheeled, three-wheeled or four-wheeled vehicle but is also extensible to multi-axle vehicles. In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle may be an ICE-based two-wheeled vehicle that operates on CNG. The term “fuel” refers to compressed natural gas (CNG).

[0032] The vehicle user is the primary operator / pilot of the vehicle but may also, depending on the context, include the secondary operator / passenger (if any) of the vehicle. The term “vehicle user” has been used interchangeably with “user”,“vehicle rider”, “vehicle operator”, “vehicle controller”, and “vehicle driver”, while conveying the same meaning.

[0033] The object of the present subject matter is to provide a fuel system for a vehicle that can accurately and reliably measure the internal pressure of CNG in the fuel tank.

[0034] The present subject matter relates to a fuel system for a vehicle. In an embodiment, the fuel system comprises at least one fuel tank to store fuel, at least one valve, such as a shut-off valve, and one or more pressure sensors. The at least one fuel tank is configured with a frame assembly of the vehicle. The at least one valve is coupled to at least one opening of the at least one fuel tank. The one or more pressure sensors are fluidically coupled to the at least one valve and is configured to sense a pressure of fuel in the at least one fuel tank. The one or more pressure sensors are disposed on either side of the valve, such that the one or more pressure sensors are configured ahead of a tail lamp assembly, behind a head tube, and above an axis FW-RW connecting the axles of one or more front wheels and one or more rear wheels of the vehicle.

[0035] The one or more pressure sensors are communicatively coupled with a control unit of the vehicle. The one or more pressure sensors are configured to send data associated with the sensed pressure of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank to the control unit, wherein the control unit being configured to determine, in realtime, volume of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank. This allows real-time pressure monitoring in the fuel tank that can enhance system diagnostics and provide more accurate feedback to the vehicle user. The one or more pressure sensors continuously track fluctuations, communicating the same to the control unit of the vehicle, allowing for immediate response in fuel management, thus enhancing vehicle performance and ensuring consistent pressure flow. Therefore, the present subject matter is capable of accurately and reliably measuring the internal pressure of fuel in the fuel tank.

[0036] It is another object of the present subject matter to provide a fuel system for a vehicle that has a pressure sensor mounted at a location in close proximity tothe valve of the fuel system. In view of addressing the same, the present subject matter, in an embodiment, provides the fuel system comprising one or more pressure reducers connected to the valve. The one or more pressure reducers are laterally offset from a central axis L-L’ extended in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle such that the one or more pressure sensors are configured on a same side of the one or more pressure reducers between the valve and the one or more pressure reducers, or on a side opposite to the side of the one or more pressure reducers with respect to the central axis L-L’. Therefore, the one or more pressure sensors are positioned in close proximity to the valve to accurately sense the pressure of the fuel as it enters and leaves the at least one fuel tank.

[0037] Additionally, the present subject matter provides the fuel system comprising a refueling unit connected to the valve. The refueling unit is laterally offset from a central axis L-L’ extended in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle such that the one or more pressure sensors are configured on a same side of the refueling unit between the valve and the refueling unit, or on a side opposite to the side of the refueling unit with respect to the central axis (L-L’). Therefore, the present subject matter provides one or more pressure sensors mounted at a location in close proximity to the valve of the fuel system enabling the sensors to take measurements accurately.

[0038] It is another object of the present subject matter to provide a fuel system for a vehicle that has a pressure sensor mounted at a location that can function accurately with minimal errors resulting from vibrations and thermal exposure. In view of addressing the same, the present subject matter, in an embodiment, provides the frame assembly comprising a rear frame portion. The rear frame portion includes a plurality of side tubes, and a cross bar. The cross bar is disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion and is configured to connect the plurality of side tubes such the one or more pressure sensors is disposed between the plurality of side tubes and ahead of the cross bar.

[0039] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors is disposed between the at least one fuel tank and any one of the plurality of side tubes. In anotherembodiment, the one or more pressure sensors is disposed rearward of the at least one fuel tank and forward of the cross bar, in a vehicle front-rear direction. The one or more pressure sensors is placed away from the vehicle wheels, the power unit, the radiator, the exhaust, while still maintaining close proximity with the fuel tank.

[0040] The placement of the one or more pressure sensors sensor between the at least one fuel tank and the valve ensures better monitoring of the pressure fluctuations, improving vehicle efficiency, safety, and fuel management. Additionally, this extends the lifespan of components, enhance system diagnostics, and provides more accurate feedback to the vehicle user, ultimately leading to lower maintenance costs and better overall performance.

[0041] Therefore, the present subject matter provides one or more pressure sensors mounted at a location that can take measurements accurately while ensuring minimal errors resulting from vibrations and thermal exposure. Additionally, the present subject matter provides one or more pressure sensors mounted at a location that ensures ease of assembly, space efficiency, and serviceability.

[0042] Figure 1 illustrates a side view of a frame assembly with a fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] With reference to Figure 1, 102 denotes a frame assembly, 104 denotes a front frame portion, 106 denotes a rear frame portion, 106L, 106R denote a plurality of side tubes, 108 denotes a head tube, 200 denotes a fuel system, and 202 denotes at least one fuel tank.

[0044] The vehicle 100 comprises the frame assembly 102. The frame assembly 102 comprises the head tube 108, the front frame portion 104, and the rear frame portion 106. The front frame portion 104 is coupled to the head tube 108. The rear frame portion 106 is coupled to the front frame portion 104. The front frame portion 104 extends rearward and downward from the head tube 102, in a side view of the vehicle 100, along a central axis L-L’ (See figure 2) of the vehicle 100. The rear frame portion 106 extends rearward from the front frame portion 104 along central axis L-L.

[0045] The front frame portion 104 is the front end of the frame assembly 102. In an embodiment, the front frame portion 104 may comprise a down tube, one or more cross tubes, and one or more bottom tubes. The down tube extends rearward and downward from the head tube 108 along the central axis L-L’, in a side view of the vehicle 100. The one or more cross tubes extend along a vehicle with direction and are connected to the down tube. The one or more bottom tubes extend rearwardly from the one or more cross tubes along the central axis L-L’.

[0046] The rear frame portion 106 is the rear end of the frame assembly 102. The rear frame portion 106 extends rearward from the one or more bottom tubes along the central axis L-L’, in a side view of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the rear frame portion 106 comprises: a plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R, and a cross bar 212 (See figure 2). The cross bar 212 is disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion 106 and is configured to connect the plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R.

[0047] The plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R comprise a left side tube 106L disposed on a left side of the rear frame portion 106 in a vehicle rear-front direction and a right side tube 106R disposed on a right side of the rear frame portion 106 in a vehicle rear-front direction.

[0048] The fuel system 202 ensures the storage, regulation, and delivery of fuel to a power unit, such as IC engine, of the vehicle 100. The fuel system 200 is configured to intake, handle, store, and deliver fuel to the power unit of the vehicle 100. The fuel system 200 is configured to the frame assembly 102 of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the fuel system 200 is configured to the rear frame portion 106 of the vehicle 100.

[0049] The fuel system 200 comprises at least one fuel tank 202 to store fuel, at least one valve, such as a shut-off valve, 204 (See figure 2), and one or more pressure sensors 206 (See figure 2). The at least one fuel tank 202 is configured with the frame assembly 102. In an embodiment, the at least one fuel tank 202 is disposed along a central axis L-L’ (See figure 2) of the vehicle 100. The at least one fuel tank 202 is configured to safely contain CNG at high pressures and ensure an adequate fuel supply for the vehicle 100. The at least one fuel tank 202 maycomprise any of: all-metal cylinders, fully-wrapped composite cylinders with plastic liner, fully-wrapped composite cylinders with metal liner, and hoopwrapped cylinders.

[0050] Figure 2 illustrates a top view of a rear frame portion with the fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0051] With reference to Figure 2, 106 denotes a rear frame portion, 106L, 106R denote a plurality of side tubes, 200 denotes a fuel system, 202 denotes at least one fuel tank, 204 denotes at least one valve, 206 denotes one or more pressure sensors, 208 denotes one or more pressure reducers, 210 denotes a refueling unit, 212 denotes a cross bar, and L-L’ denotes a central axis of the vehicle.

[0052] The axis L-L’ is a horizontal axis extending in a direction parallel to the ground in a vehicle longitudinal direction. The axis L-L’ passes horizontally through the vehicle 100, such that the axis L-L’ divides the vehicle 100 into two equal halves in a top view of the vehicle 100.

[0053] The rear frame portion 106 is the rear end of the frame assembly 102. The rear frame portion 106 comprises a plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R, and a cross bar 212. The cross bar 212 is disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion 106 and is configured to connect the plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R.

[0054] The fuel system 200 is configured to the rear frame portion 106 of the vehicle 100. The fuel system 200 comprises at least one fuel tank 202 to store fuel, at least one valve 204, and one or more pressure sensors 206.

[0055] The at least one fuel tank 202 is configured with the frame assembly 102. In an embodiment, the at least one fuel tank 202 is disposed along the central axis L-L’ of the vehicle 100.

[0056] The at least one valve (hereinafter, also referred to as shut-off valve) 204 is coupled to at least one opening of the at least one fuel tank 202. The shut-off valve is configured to stop or permit the flow of fuel between the refueling unit 210 and the at least one fuel tank 202, and between the at least one fuel tank 202 and the one or more pressure reducers 208. The shut-off valve 204 is configured toautomatically shut-off fuel flow in case of excessive pressure, leakages, or system failure.

[0057] The one or more pressure sensors 206 are fluidically coupled to the at least one shut-off valve 204. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured to sense a pressure of fuel in the at least one fuel tank 202. For instance, the one or more pressure sensors 206 may comprise any of a Strain gauge pressure sensors, capacitive pressure sensors, piezoelectric pressure sensors, MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) pressure sensors, optical pressure sensors, and thermal conductivity-based pressure sensors.

[0058] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are fluidically coupled to the at least one shut-off valve 204 by means of a T-type connector / T-shape connector. The T-type connector is configured with a three-way connection that is coupled with the at least one shut-off valve 204, the one or more pressure sensors 206, and the refueling unit 210.

[0059] The one or more pressure sensors 206 are disposed on either side of the shut-off valve 204 such that the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured ahead of a tail lamp assembly, behind the head tube 108 and above an axis FW-RW connecting the axles of one or more front wheels and one or more rear wheels of the vehicle 100.

[0060] The one or more pressure sensors 206 are communicatively coupled with a control unit of the vehicle 100. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured to send data associated with the sensed pressure of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank 202 to the control unit.

[0061] The control unit is responsible for managing and coordinating specific functions or systems within the vehicle 100, and may comprise memories, microcontrollers / microprocessors programmed to process inputs from sensors and execute corresponding outputs to actuators. The control unit may comprise engine control units (ECU), body control modules (BCM), powertrain control modules (PCM), infotainment control units, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)control units, and any other control units that may perform vehicle operations such as regulating the fuel intake, management, and delivery systems in the vehicle 100.

[0062] The control unit is configured to determine, in real-time, volume of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank 202 based on data received from the pressure sensors 206. This allows real-time pressure monitoring in the at least one fuel tank 202 that can enhance system diagnostics and provide more accurate feedback to the vehicle user.

[0063] The fuel system 200 comprises the one or more pressure reducers 208 connected to the shut-off valve 204. The one or more pressure reducers 208 is configured to reduce the input pressure of the fuel before delivering the fuel to the power unit of the vehicle 100. The one or more pressure reducers 208 reduces the pressure of the fuel from a range of around 200 bar to around 2 bar.

[0064] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure reducers 208 are laterally offset from the central axis L-L’. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a same side of the one or more pressure reducers 208 between the shut-off valve 204 and the one or more pressure reducers 208 or on a side opposite to the side of the one or more pressure reducers 208 with respect to the central axis L-L’.

[0065] In Figure 2, as part of an embodiment of the present subject matter, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a side opposite to the side of the one or more pressure reducers 208 with respect to the central axis L-L’.

[0066] The fuel system 200 further comprises the refuelling unit 210 connected to the shut-off valve 204. The refuelling unit 210 is configured to allow the refuelling of fuel into the fuel tank of the fuel system 200. In an embodiment, the refuelling unit 210 is fluidically coupled to the one or more pressure sensors 206 by means of the T-type connector / T-shape connector. The T-type connector is configured with a three-way connection that is coupled with the at least one shut-off valve 204, the one or more pressure sensors 206, and the refueling unit 210.

[0067] The refueling unit 210 is laterally offset from the central axis L-L’ away from the one or more pressure reducers 208. In one embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a same side of the refueling unit 210 between the shut-off valve 204 and the refueling unit 210 or on a side opposite to the side of the refueling unit 210 with respect to the central axis L-L’.

[0068] In Figure 2, as part of an embodiment of the present subject matter, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a same side of the refueling unit 210 between the shut-off valve 204 and the refueling unit 210.

[0069] In an embodiment, the cross bar 212 is disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion 106 and is configured to connect the plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R. The one or more pressure sensors 206 is disposed between the plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R, in a top view of the vehicle, and ahead of the cross bar 212 in a vehicle front-rear direction.

[0070] In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors 206 is disposed between the at least one fuel tank 202 and any one of the plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R, in a top view of the vehicle 100. In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors 206 is disposed rearward of the at least one fuel tank (202) and forward of the cross bar, in a vehicle front-rear direction.

[0071] In another embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors 206 is disposed forward of the at least one fuel tank 202 and behind the head tube 108 of the vehicle 100, in a vehicle front-rear direction.

[0072] Figure 3 illustrates a rear isometric view of a rear frame portion with the fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0073] With reference to Figure 3, 106 denotes a rear frame portion, 106L, 106R denote a plurality of side tubes, 200 denotes a fuel system, 202 denotes at least one fuel tank, 204 denotes at least one shut-off valve, 206 denotes one or more pressure sensors, and 212 denotes a cross bar.

[0074] The rear frame portion 106 comprises a plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R, and a cross bar 212. The cross bar 212 is disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion 106 and is configured to connect the plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R.

[0075] The fuel system 200 is configured to the rear frame portion 106 of the vehicle 100. The fuel system 200 comprises at least one fuel tank 202 to store fuel, at least one shut-off valve 204, and one or more pressure sensors 206. The fuel system 200 further comprises one or more pressure reducers 208 (See figure 2) and a refuelling unit 210 (See figure 2) connected to the shut-off valve 204.

[0076] A T-type connector / T-shape connector is configured with a three-way connection that is coupled with the at least one shut-off valve 204, the one or more pressure sensors 206, and the refueling unit 210. In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are fluidically coupled to the at least one shut-off valve 204 by means of a T-type connector. The refuelling unit 210 is fluidically coupled to the one or more pressure sensors 206 by means of the T-type connector.

[0077] In Figure 3, as part of an embodiment of the present subject matter, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a same side of the refueling unit 210 (not shown) between the shut-off valve 204 and the refueling unit 210. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are disposed between the plurality of side tubes 106L, 106R, in a top view of the vehicle, and ahead of the cross bar 212 in a vehicle frontrear direction. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are disposed between the at least one fuel tank 202 and right side tube 106R. The one or more pressure sensors 206 is disposed rearward of the at least one fuel tank (202) and forward of the cross bar, in a vehicle front-rear direction.

[0078] Figure 4 illustrates a top view of a fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0079] With reference to Figure 4, 200 denotes a fuel system, 202 denotes at least one fuel tank, 204 denotes at least one shut-off valve, 206 denotes one or more pressure sensors, 208 denotes one or more pressure reducers, 210 denotes a refueling unit, and L-L’ denotes a central axis of the vehicle.

[0080] The axis L-L’ is a horizontal axis extending in a direction parallel to the ground in a vehicle longitudinal direction. The axis L-L’ passes horizontally through the vehicle 100, such that the axis L-L’ divides the vehicle 100 into two equal halves in a top view of the vehicle 100.

[0081] The fuel system 200 comprises at least one fuel tank 202 to store fuel, at least one shut-off valve 204, and one or more pressure sensors 206. In an embodiment, the at least one fuel tank 202 is disposed along the central axis L-L’ of the vehicle 100. The at least one shut-off valve 204 is coupled to at least one opening of the at least one fuel tank 202. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are fluidically coupled to the at least one shut-off valve 204. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are disposed on either side of the shut-off valve 204.

[0082] The fuel system 200 comprises the one or more pressure reducers 208 connected to the shut-off valve 204. The one or more pressure reducers 208 is laterally offset from the central axis L-L’ . The one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on same side of the one or more pressure reducers 208 between the shutoff valve 204 and the one or more pressure reducers 208 or on a side opposite to the side of the one or more pressure reducers 208 with respect to the central axis L-L’.

[0083] The fuel system 200 further comprises the refuelling unit 210 connected to the shut-off valve 204. The refueling unit 210 is laterally offset from the central axis L-L’ away from the one or more pressure reducers 208. The one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a same side of the refueling unit 210 between the shut-off valve 204 and the refueling unit 210 or on a side opposite to the side of the refueling unit 210 with respect to the central axis L-L’.

[0084] In Figure 4, as part of an embodiment of the present subject matter, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a side opposite to the side of the one or more pressure reducers 208 with respect to the central axis L-L’. the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a same side of the refueling unit 210 between the shut-off valve 204 and the refueling unit 210.

[0085] Figure 5 illustrates a top view of a rear portion of a fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0086] With reference to Figure 5, 200 denotes a fuel system, 204 denotes at least one shut-off valve, 206 denotes one or more pressure sensors, 208 denotes one or more pressure reducers, and 210 denotes a refueling unit.

[0087] The fuel system 200 comprises at least one fuel tank 202 to store fuel, at least one shut-off valve 204, and one or more pressure sensors 206. The fuel system 200 further comprises the one or more pressure reducers 208 and the refuelling unit 210.

[0088] In Figure 5, as part of an embodiment of the present subject matter, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are configured on a same side of the one or more pressure reducers 208 between the shut-off valve 204 and the one or more pressure reducers 208, and on a side opposite to the side of the refueling unit 210 with respect to the central axis L-L’.

[0089] Figure 6 illustrates a rear isometric view of a fuel system of the vehicle, in accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0090] With reference to Figure 6, 200 denotes a fuel system, 202 denotes at least one fuel tank, 204 denotes at least one shut-off valve, 206 denotes one or more pressure sensors, 208 denotes one or more pressure reducers, 210 denotes a refueling unit, and X-X’ denotes an axis of the one or more pressure sensors.

[0091] The fuel system 200 comprises at least one fuel tank 202 to store fuel, at least one shut-off valve 204, and one or more pressure sensors 206. The fuel system 200 further comprises the one or more pressure reducers 208 and the refuelling unit 210. In an embodiment, the one or more pressure sensors 206 are fluidically coupled to the at least one shut-off valve 204 by means of a T-type connector. The refuelling unit 210 is fluidically coupled to the one or more pressure sensors 206 by means of the T-type connector.

[0092] The axis X-X’ is a central vertical axis of the one or more pressure sensors 206. In an embodiment, the axis X-X’ of the one or more pressure sensors isinclined to a horizontal plane A extending along central axis L-L’ that is parallel to the ground, by an angle a ranging from 0 to 90 degrees. In a preferred embodiment, the angle a is an angle of 45 degrees. This inclination of the one or more sensors 206 is to align the one or more pressure sensors 206 to couple with the control unit of the vehicle with minimal length of wiring harnesses.

[0093] The terms “an embodiment”, “embodiment”, “embodiments”, “the embodiment”, “the embodiments”, “one or more embodiments”, “some embodiments”, and “one embodiment” mean “one or more (but not all) embodiments of the invention(s)” unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “including”, “comprising”, “having” and variations thereof mean “including but not limited to”, unless expressly specified otherwise. The terms “a”, “an” and “the” mean “one or more”, unless expressly specified otherwise.

[0094] In light of the above-mentioned advantages and the technical advancements provided by the present disclosure, the claimed subject matter is not routine, conventional, or well understood in the art, as the claimed vehicle enable the following solutions to the existing problems in conventional technologies. In view of the above, the claimed invention may not be considered abstract and may not be obvious to a person skilled in the art. Further, the claimed subject matter and constructional features provide a technical solution to a technical problem.

[0095] Finally, the language used in the specification has been principally selected for readability and instructional purposes, and it may not have been selected to delineate or circumscribe the inventive subject matter and is therefore intended that the scope of the invention be limited not by this detailed description, but rather by any claims that issue on an application based here on. Accordingly, the embodiments of the present invention are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

[0096] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. A person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the systems, modules, and sub-modules have been illustrated and explained to serve as examples and should not beconsidered limiting in any manner. It will be further appreciated that the variants of the above disclosed system elements, modules, and other features and functions, or alternatives thereof, may be combined to create other different systems or applications. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any of the aforementioned system modules may be suitably replaced, reordered, or removed, and additional steps and / or system modules may be inserted, depending on the needs of a particular application.

[0097] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from its scope. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

We Claim:

1. A fuel system (200) for a vehicle (100), the fuel system (200) comprising:at least one fuel tank (202) to store fuel, the at least one fuel tank (202) being configured with a frame assembly (102) of the vehicle (100);at least one valve (204) coupled to at least one opening of the at least one fuel tank (202); andone or more pressure sensors (206) fluidically coupled to the at least one valve (204), the one or more pressure sensors (206) configured to sense a pressure of fuel in the at least one fuel tank (202), the one or more pressure sensors (206) being disposed on either side of the valve (204),wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) configured ahead of a tail lamp assembly, behind a head tube (108) and above valve an axis FW-RW connecting the axles of one or more front wheels and one or more rear wheels of the vehicle (100).

2. The fuel system (200) for the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) being communicatively coupled with a control unit of the vehicle (100), the one or more pressure sensors (206) being configured to send data associated with the sensed pressure of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank (202) to the control unit, wherein the control unit being configured to determine, in real-time, volume of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank (202).

3. The fuel system (200) for the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fuel system (200) comprises one or more pressure reducers (208) connected to the valve (204), the one or more pressure reducers (208) being laterally offset from a central axis (L-L’) extended in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle (100), andwherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) are configured on a same side of the one or more pressure reducers (208) between the valve(204) and the one or more pressure reducers (208) or on a side opposite to the side of the one or more pressure reducers (208) with respect to the central axis (L-L’).

4. The fuel system (200) for the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the fuel system (200) comprises a refueling unit (210) fluidically connected to the valve (204), the refueling unit (210) being laterally offset from a central axis (L-L’) extended in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle (100), andwherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) are configured on a same side of the refueling unit (210) between the valve (204) and the refueling unit (210) or on a side opposite to the side of the refueling unit (210) with respect to the central axis (L-L’).

5. The fuel system (200) for the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the frame assembly (102) comprises a rear frame portion (106), the rear frame portion (106) includes:a plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R); anda cross bar (212) disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion (106), the cross bar (212) configured to connect the plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R), wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) is disposed between the plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R) and ahead of the cross bar (212).

6. The fuel system (200) for the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) being disposed between the at least one fuel tank (202) and any one of the plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R).

7. The fuel system (200) for the vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 5, wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) being disposed rearward of the atleast one fuel tank (202) and forward of the cross bar, in a vehicle front-rear direction.

8. A vehicle (100), the vehicle (100) comprising:a frame assembly (102), the frame assembly (102) comprising: a head tube (108),a front frame portion (104) coupled to the head tube (108), anda rear frame portion (106) coupled to the front frame portion (104); anda fuel system (200) configured to the frame assembly (102), the fuel system (200) comprising:at least one fuel tank (202) to store fuel, the at least one fuel tank (202) being configured with the frame assembly (102);at least one valve (204) coupled to at least one opening of the at least one fuel tank (202);one or more pressure sensors (206) fluidically coupled to the at least one valve (204), the one or more pressure sensors (206) configured to sense a pressure of fuel in the at least one fuel tank (202), the one or more pressure sensors (206) being disposed on either side of the valve (204), andwherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) configured ahead of a tail lamp assembly, behind the head tube (108) and above an axis FW-RW connecting the axles of one or more front wheels and one or more rear wheels of the vehicle (100).

9. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) being communicatively coupled with a control unit of the vehicle (100), the one or more pressure sensors (206) being configured to send data associated with the sensed pressure of the fuel in the at least onefuel tank (202) to the control unit, wherein the control unit being configured to determine, in real-time, volume of the fuel in the at least one fuel tank (202).

10. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the rear frame portion (106) comprises:a plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R); anda cross bar (212) disposed on a rear end of the rear frame portion (106), the cross bar (212) configured to connect the plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R), wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) is disposed between the plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R) and ahead of the cross bar (212).

11. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) being disposed between the at least one fuel tank (202) and any one of the plurality of side tubes (106L, 106R).

12. The vehicle (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the one or more pressure sensors (206) being disposed rearward of the at least one fuel tank (202) and forward of the cross bar (212), in a vehicle front-rear direction.

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