Capless Refueling Mechanism With Pendulum Misfueling Inhibitor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capless refueling mechanisms fail to distinguish between fuel nozzles of different diameters, leading to misfueling and require additional adapters for low and high flow rate diesel nozzles, which complicates the refueling process and increases the risk of fuel vapor emissions.
Innovation Solution
A capless refueling mechanism featuring a body with a pivotably coupled sealing door and adjustable pendulum arms that guide and secure fuel nozzles of suitable diameters, preventing misfueling by allowing only nozzles within a specific diameter range to open the door and dispense fuel, while minimizing vapor emissions by sealing the tank after refueling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a capless refueling mechanism without diameter discrimination is used, then the refueling process is simple and fast, but misfueling occurs when nozzles of different diameters are inserted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by detecting the diameter parameter of the inserted nozzle and using this information to control the refueling process. The system changes its operational state based on the detected nozzle diameter, allowing it to accommodate different nozzle sizes while preventing misfueling through electronic control and validation logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by using a sensor to detect the nozzle diameter and providing this information back to the control system. The control system then uses this feedback to determine whether to allow refueling, ensuring that the correct fuel type is dispensed based on the detected nozzle characteristics.
2Reliability
If multiple adapters are provided for different nozzle diameters, then misfueling is prevented, but the device complexity and refueling time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single refueling port that can accommodate multiple nozzle diameters through electronic control. Instead of providing multiple physical adapters, the system uses a universal interface with sensor-based detection and control logic to ensure compatibility and prevent misfueling, reducing the number of physical components needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of multiple physical adapters with an electronic control system. The sensor-based detection and electronic control mechanisms substitute for the need for multiple mechanical adapter components, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining reliability.
3Measurement precision
If a large sealing door is used to guide the fuel nozzle, then nozzle positioning is improved, but the space available for nozzle insertion is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary element in the form of a nozzle guide structure that works in conjunction with the sealing door. This intermediary component helps position the nozzle accurately while maintaining sufficient insertion space, as the guide structure provides directional guidance without requiring a large sealing door area.
Data Source
AI summary
A capless refueling mechanism attached to a vehicle fuel tank is disclosed. In one example, the capless refueling mechanism includes a guide plate, main opening, misfueling inhibitor mechanism with a first and second pendulum arm mounted within the main opening, and a sealing door pivotably coupled to the refueling mechanism. The first and second pendulum arm of the misfueling inhibitor may be adjusted to move from a first position to a second position, allowing a fuel nozzle sized to fit the main opening to open the sealing door and dispense fuel into the fuel tank.