Cap-free filler neck locking groove with pivoting lock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing capless tank neck closures face issues with the upper closure flap not returning to the closed position correctly, especially when using non-standard or damaged fuel nozzles, leading to potential unintentional opening due to the return spring's force and misalignment of the locking groove.
Innovation Solution
The locking groove is redesigned to allow the upper closure flap to return to the closed position regardless of the sliding element's position, using a swivel lock with a spring element that moves parallel to the upper closure flap, ensuring it engages and locks securely, even when the sliding element is partially or completely displaced, and incorporating a spring element that pushes back to release the locking groove for proper closure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the upper closure flap is returned to the closed position by a return spring after the dispensing tube is removed, then the closure flap should automatically close, but the closure flap may not be in the closed position when the sliding element springs back, causing the closure to remain unintentionally open
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by ensuring the upper closure flap is returned to the closed position and locked in the locking groove before the sliding element completes its return movement. The locking groove is designed with a geometry that guides and secures the closure flap in the closed position during the return sequence, preventing premature springback of the sliding element from causing unintended opening.
2Reliability
If the sliding element is secured against displacement by security elements, then the closure is protected against unauthorized opening, but the security elements must be deactivated automatically by the dispensing tube to allow normal refueling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by designing the security elements as movable components that are locked in a blocking position during normal operation but can be dynamically deactivated when the dispensing tube is inserted. The dispensing tube interacts with the security elements through the sliding element's movement, automatically transitioning them from a locked to an unlocked state, enabling both security and normal refueling functionality.
3Reliability
If the locking groove is positioned to engage the upper closure flap in the closed position, then the closure is secured, but the locking groove may misalign when the sliding element is displaced, preventing proper engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by designing the locking groove with a three-dimensional geometry that accommodates the displacement of the sliding element. The locking groove is positioned and shaped such that it can engage the upper closure flap effectively regardless of the sliding element's position, using depth and angular variations to maintain reliable locking engagement throughout the operational range.
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
This design ensures the upper closure flap consistently engages and locks in the locking groove, preventing unintentional opening, even with non-standard or damaged nozzles, by allowing the swivel lock to adjust and secure the flap in all positions, enhancing the closure's reliability and security.
Implementation Method 1
the upper closure flap (3) is returned into the closed position by a return spring (4)
Implementation Method 2
using a swivel lock with a spring element that moves parallel to the upper closure flap
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The end has a flap safety device formed by a locking groove (5) in which a section of an edge of a spring-loaded upper closure flap (3) is engaged. The flap safety device is detachable by spatial displacement of the flap by driving out an edge from the groove. A lower region of the groove is formed from a pivoting lock (7) that is displaceable against force of a spring. The lock is displaceable by the closure flap. The flap springs back the edge of the closure flap for closing the locking groove according to resting of the flap against an upper groove edge. USE : Cap-free closable tank connecting piece end for a filler neck of a fuel tank of a motor car. ADVANTAGE : The upper closure flap automatically springs back the edge of the closure flap according to resting of the flap against the upper groove edge, thus optimizing a closing function of the locking groove. The design of the connecting piece end avoids the need of engagement of a front edge of the upper closure flap in the locking groove. DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS : The drawing shows a side sectional view of a cap-free closable tank connecting piece end. 2 : Pump nozzle 3 : Spring-loaded upper closure flap 4 : Positioning element 5 : Locking groove 7 : Pivoting lock.