Electromechanically Operated Fuel Nozzle with Variable Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel nozzles have limited flow rate settings, which can lead to overfilling or slow refueling due to their mechanical operation and complex, costly designs, lacking adjustability for different vehicle types.
Innovation Solution
An electromechanically operated fuel nozzle with a continuously variable flow electromechanical valve system, powered by an electronic board and electric power connection, allowing for adjustable flow rates from zero to 100% and incorporating a diaphragm and piloting chamber for precise control, along with an optional electronic accumulator for energy storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a mechanical-manual valve operation is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the flow rate control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical-manual valve operation system with an electromechanical valve system. The electromechanical valve receives electronic control signals to adjust the fuel flow rate, enabling precise flow control (improving manufacturing precision) while maintaining relatively simple device structure through electronic rather than complex mechanical linkages (managing device complexity).
Solution Approach 2:
The electromechanical valve enables continuous adjustment of the flow rate parameter by varying the control signal to the valve actuator. This allows the flow rate to be dynamically changed according to different refueling needs, providing continuous variable flow control rather than fixed mechanical settings.
2Device complexity
If limited flow rate settings are provided, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic flow control system where the electromechanical valve can continuously adjust the flow rate based on real-time control signals. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to different refueling scenarios (different vehicle types, filler neck geometries) without requiring multiple fixed-setting nozzles, thereby improving adaptability while keeping the system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The electromechanical valve system provides multi-functionality by enabling a single nozzle to deliver multiple flow rates (from low for small vehicles to high for large vehicles) through electronic control. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized nozzles, improving versatility while maintaining device simplicity.
3Manufacturing precision
If a complex electromechanical valve system is used, then the flow control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an electromechanical valve that replaces complex mechanical linkages with electronic actuators and control circuits. The valve is directly actuated by an electromagnetic coil or motor, eliminating the need for mechanical couplings, pulleys, and transmission mechanisms. This substitution achieves precise flow control through electronic modulation while keeping the overall device structure simpler than traditional mechanical systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If continuous variable flow control is implemented, then the adaptability is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electromechanical valve uses periodic pulsed signals to control the electromagnetic coil, adjusting the flow rate by varying the pulse width or frequency rather than requiring continuous high-power actuation. This periodic control method enables continuous variable flow adjustment while significantly reducing average energy consumption compared to continuous actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the valve position and flow rate in response to control signals, allowing the nozzle to adapt to different refueling requirements. The electromechanical valve maintains its position with minimal holding energy once actuated, and the electronic control system optimizes energy usage by activating the valve only when flow rate changes are needed.
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 solution provides a safe, reliable, and easy-to-operate fuel nozzle with improved flow control, reduced energy consumption, and higher resolution, enabling compact and efficient refueling with multiple flow rate settings, addressing the limitations of existing nozzles.
Implementation Method 1
an electromechanical valve device to control a flow of fuel in the fuel dispensing pipe
Implementation Method 2
an electronic board for operating the at least one continuously variable flow electromechanical valve
Implementation Method 3
an electric power connection for electrically powering the at least one variable flow electromechanical valve and the electronic board
Data Source
AI summary
An electromechanically operated fuel nozzle having continuously adjustable flow rate settings between a closed position and maximum flow. The fuel nozzle includes a fuel dispensing pipe for dispensing fuel; an electromechanical valve device to control a flow of fuel in the fuel dispensing pipe, comprising an inlet pipe and an outlet pipe. The electromechanical valve device comprises at least one continuously variable flow electromechanical valve to control the flow of fuel; an electronic board for operating the at least one continuously variable flow electromechanical valve; and electric accumulator means for electrically powering the at least one variable flow electromechanical valve and the electronic board such that the predetermined portions provide the particular one of the flow rate settings. The electromechanical valve preferably comprises a servomotor controlled ball valve.