Compact Evaporative Emissions Leak Module With Integrated Valve Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leak detection modules (LDMs) for evaporative emissions systems are often bulky and require lengthy assembly times, particularly due to the use of two two-way valves that complicate the packaging and assembly process.
Innovation Solution
A leak detection module design featuring a housing with first and second valve cavities, solenoid valves, a pump, and an electrical connector assembly, where the solenoid valves form chambers with seals and operate in three states to facilitate efficient fluid communication and pressure regulation during testing, allowing for compact packaging and streamlined assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two two-way valves are used to regulate flow from the pump, then flow control functionality is improved, but device complexity and packaging size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the two separate two-way valves into a single integrated valve assembly that performs both flow control functions. The valve assembly includes a valve body with multiple passages and a single actuator that controls flow in different directions, reducing the total number of discrete valve components while maintaining the required flow regulation capability for both vacuum and pressure modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated valve assembly is designed to perform multiple functions through a single component structure. The valve body incorporates multiple inlet and outlet passages that can be selectively opened or closed based on the operational mode (vacuum or pressure), allowing one valve assembly to replace what would traditionally require two separate valves for complete flow control.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two two-way valves are used in the LDM, then flow regulation capability is improved, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By combining two separate valve assemblies into one integrated unit, the patent reduces the number of discrete components that must be handled, positioned, and secured during assembly. The single valve assembly requires only one set of mounting operations and sealing procedures, directly reducing assembly time while preserving the dual-mode flow regulation capability.
3Volume of moving object
If a compact LDM design is achieved, then packaging size is reduced, but valve cavity configuration complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The valve cavity is designed with optimized local geometry to accommodate the integrated valve assembly efficiently. The cavity includes strategically positioned passages and chambers that are shaped to minimize overall package volume while providing adequate space for the valve mechanism and its actuator. The cavity configuration is tailored to the specific valve assembly design, creating a compact arrangement that reduces packaging size without excessive complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The design enables a compact and efficiently assembled LDM that effectively regulates pressure and detects leaks in evaporative emissions systems, reducing assembly time and packaging size while maintaining operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
First and second solenoid valves are arranged within the housing and are respectively received in the first and second cavities
Implementation Method 2
A pump is arranged within the housing and includes first and second pump ports respectively coupled to the first and second holes
Data Source
AI summary
A leak detection module (LDM) includes a housing including first and second valve cavities respectively having first and second walls respectively extending to first and second openings. The first and second walls respectively include first and second holes. The housing has an atmospheric port, a charcoal canister port, and an electrical connector. First and second solenoid valves are arranged within the housing and are respectively received in the first and second cavities and extend out of the first and second openings. A pump is arranged within the housing and includes first and second pump ports respectively coupled to the first and second holes. An electrical connector assembly is arranged within the housing and is coupled to the electrical connector. The electrical connector assembly is electrically connected to the first and second solenoid valves, and the pump.